Integer Overflow Vulnerability in libexif: Denial of Service Risk
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2012-2845: Integer overflow in the jpeg_data_load_data function in jpeg-data.c in libjpeg in exif 0.6.20 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (buffer over-read and application crash) or obtain potentially sensitive... Affects libexif versions < 0.6.21-r0. Fixed in 0.6.21-r0. How to fix ↓
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Background
libexif is a library used for reading and writing EXIF (Exchangeable Image File Format) metadata in image files, particularly JPEGs. It is widely utilized in various applications that handle image processing. The library's functionality includes parsing and managing metadata, which is crucial for image-related tasks. However, vulnerabilities in libexif can lead to severe security issues, including denial of service and exposure of sensitive information.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-2845 is an integer overflow in the jpeg_data_load_data function within jpeg-data.c of the libjpeg component of libexif version 0.6.20. This flaw allows remote attackers to exploit crafted JPEG files, leading to a denial of service through buffer over-read and application crashes. Additionally, it poses a risk of leaking potentially sensitive information, making it critical for users to address this vulnerability promptly.
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 workaround, users can avoid processing untrusted JPEG files until the package is updated. This will help mitigate the risk of exploitation while waiting for the official patch.
Conclusion
The integer overflow vulnerability in libexif (CVE-2012-2845) poses a significant risk to applications that process JPEG files. Users are strongly encouraged to update to the patched version to safeguard against potential denial of service attacks and information leaks. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help monitor for such vulnerabilities effectively.
See every vulnerability recorded for libexif →
FAQ
CVE-2012-2845 is a vulnerability in the libexif library that can lead to denial of service and potential information leakage due to an integer overflow in the jpeg_data_load_data function.
You can use the Vulert platform to monitor and alert for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. By uploading your manifest file, you can check for vulnerabilities like CVE-2012-2845.
Exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to application crashes and the potential exposure of sensitive information, posing significant security risks.
Yes, the patched version of libexif is 0.6.21-r0. Users are advised to update to this version or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
If immediate updates are not possible, refrain from processing untrusted JPEG files to minimize the risk of exploitation until the patch can be applied.
References
Related vulnerabilities
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