CVE-2024-28699 in pdf2json
Summary
by MITRE • 04/22/2024
A buffer overflow vulnerability in pdf2json v0.70 allows a local attacker to execute arbitrary code via the GString::copy() and ImgOutputDev::ImgOutputDev function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/28/2024
The buffer overflow vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-28699 resides within the pdf2json v0.70 software library, presenting a critical security risk that can be exploited by local attackers to achieve arbitrary code execution. This vulnerability specifically manifests in the GString::copy() and ImgOutputDev::ImgOutputDev functions, which are fundamental components responsible for handling string operations and image output processing within the PDF parsing framework. The flaw represents a classic buffer overflow condition where insufficient bounds checking allows malicious data to overwrite adjacent memory regions, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper memory management within the string handling routines of the pdf2json library. When the GString::copy() function processes input data, it fails to validate the length of source data against the allocated buffer size, creating a condition where buffer overflows can occur. Similarly, the ImgOutputDev::ImgOutputDev function demonstrates analogous weaknesses in its memory allocation and data copying mechanisms. These issues align with CWE-121, which categorizes buffer overflow conditions that occur when data is copied into a buffer without proper bounds checking, and CWE-125, which addresses out-of-bounds read vulnerabilities that can result from insufficient input validation. The vulnerability can be exploited through carefully crafted PDF files that trigger the affected functions during processing, making it particularly dangerous in environments where untrusted PDF documents are regularly parsed.
Operationally, this vulnerability poses significant risks to systems that utilize pdf2json for PDF document processing, particularly in automated environments or applications that handle user-uploaded content. Local attackers with minimal privileges can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected process, potentially leading to privilege escalation or complete system compromise. The impact extends beyond individual system compromise to include potential data exfiltration, service disruption, and lateral movement within network environments where such processing occurs. Organizations relying on pdf2json for document conversion, indexing, or analysis may face severe operational disruptions if this vulnerability is exploited, as it could enable attackers to gain unauthorized access to sensitive documents and system resources.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-28699 should prioritize immediate patching of the pdf2json library to version 0.71 or later, which includes proper bounds checking and memory management fixes. System administrators should implement restrictive file processing policies that limit the types of PDF files processed by applications using pdf2json, particularly those from untrusted sources. Additionally, deploying input validation mechanisms and implementing sandboxed processing environments can reduce the potential impact of exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates characteristics consistent with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script interpreter, as successful exploitation would likely involve executing malicious code through the compromised process. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and monitoring for unusual processing patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, as the vulnerability's impact can be detected through anomalous resource consumption or process behavior.