CVE-2017-12598: Out-of-bounds Read in OpenCV

Background

OpenCV (Open Source Computer Vision Library) is a popular open-source library used for computer vision and machine learning applications. It provides various functions and algorithms for image and video processing. OpenCV-Python is a Python wrapper for OpenCV, allowing developers to utilize OpenCV functionalities in Python applications. However, OpenCV versions up to 3.3 (including OpenCV-Python 3.3.0.9) are vulnerable to an out-of-bounds read error in the cv::RBaseStream::readBlock function in the modules/imgcodecs/src/bitstrm.cpp file. This vulnerability can be triggered when reading an image file using the cv::imread function.

Vulnerability Detail

The out-of-bounds read vulnerability in OpenCV can lead to potential security risks. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by providing a specially crafted image file, causing the cv::imread function to read beyond the boundaries of the allocated memory. This can result in the disclosure of sensitive information or a denial of service (DoS) condition. The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 8.8, indicating a high severity level.

pip install --upgrade "opencv-python==5.0.0.93"

pip install --upgrade "opencv-python==3.3.1.11"

Workaround

If updating the OpenCV-Python package is not immediately feasible, a possible workaround is to validate the input image file before passing it to the cv::imread function. Developers can implement additional checks to ensure the image file is within the expected boundaries and does not trigger the vulnerability. Here is an example of a workaround in Python:

import cv2

def safe_imread(file_path):
    try:
        img = cv2.imread(file_path)
        # Perform additional validation checks
        # ...
        return img
    except:
        return None

Conclusion

The out-of-bounds read vulnerability in OpenCV can have serious security implications. It is crucial to update the OpenCV-Python package to the fixed version or apply the recommended workaround to mitigate the risk. For further assistance and support in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

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