Off-by-One Error in libexif Leading to Potential Code Execution
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2012-2840: Off-by-one error in the exif_convert_utf16_to_utf8 function in exif-entry.c in the EXIF Tag Parsing Library (aka libexif) before 0.6.21 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service or possibly execute arbitrary c... Affects libexif versions < 0.6.21-r0. Fixed in 0.6.21-r0. How to fix ↓
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Background
libexif is an open-source library used for parsing EXIF tags in image files. It is widely utilized in applications that handle image metadata, providing functionalities to read and write EXIF data. The library is crucial for managing image information, especially in photography and image processing software. However, prior to version 0.6.21, libexif contained a vulnerability that could be exploited through crafted EXIF tags.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2012-2840, is an off-by-one error in the exif_convert_utf16_to_utf8 function located in exif-entry.c. This flaw allows remote attackers to craft malicious EXIF tags that can lead to a denial of service or potentially execute arbitrary code. The vulnerability arises from improper handling of input data, which can cause buffer overflows or memory corruption, posing significant risks to applications utilizing the library.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
0.6.21-r0
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apk add --upgrade libexifTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary measure, you can avoid processing untrusted images or EXIF data until the library is updated. Additionally, implementing input validation to check the integrity of EXIF tags before processing can help mitigate potential exploitation.
Conclusion
The CVE-2012-2840 vulnerability in libexif poses significant risks due to its potential for denial of service and arbitrary code execution. It is crucial for developers and system administrators to update to the patched version to safeguard their applications. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help monitor for such vulnerabilities effectively.
See every vulnerability recorded for libexif →
FAQ
CVE-2012-2840 is a vulnerability in the libexif library that allows attackers to exploit an off-by-one error in the EXIF tag parsing function, potentially leading to denial of service or arbitrary code execution.
You can check if your application is affected by using Vulert, which monitors open-source vulnerabilities in your software. Simply upload your manifest file like package-lock.json to receive alerts.
The risks include potential denial of service, where the application may crash, and the possibility of arbitrary code execution, which could allow attackers to take control of the affected system.
Yes, the vulnerability is patched in libexif version 0.6.21 and later. It is recommended to update to this version or newer to mitigate the risk.
If an immediate update is not possible, consider implementing input validation and avoiding the processing of untrusted images until the library is updated.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for libexif.
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