Critical Code Execution Vulnerability in SDL2_image Package

sdl2_image Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

24/04/2018
N/A
Yes i
High
8.8

ALPINE-CVE-2017-14442: An exploitable code execution vulnerability exists in the BMP image rendering functionality of SDL2_image-2.0.2. Affects sdl2_image versions < 2.0.3-r0. Fixed in 2.0.3-r0. How to fix ↓

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Background

SDL2_image is an image loading library that extends the capabilities of the Simple DirectMedia Layer (SDL) by providing support for various image formats. It is widely used in game development and multimedia applications for rendering images. The library is designed to be simple and efficient, but it has a critical vulnerability that affects its BMP image rendering functionality, making it susceptible to exploitation through specially crafted BMP images.

Vulnerability Detail

An exploitable code execution vulnerability exists in the BMP image rendering functionality of SDL2_image version 2.0.2. This vulnerability can be triggered by a specially crafted BMP image, leading to a stack overflow that results in arbitrary code execution. An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by displaying a malicious BMP image, potentially compromising the system running the affected application. The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 8.8, indicating a high severity level.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

2.0.3-r0

This is the first release that contains the fix.

sudo apk add --upgrade sdl2_image

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Workaround

As a temporary workaround, avoid using the BMP image format in applications that utilize SDL2_image until the package is updated to a secure version. Additionally, implement input validation to filter out potentially harmful images.

Conclusion

The SDL2_image package has a critical vulnerability that can lead to code execution through specially crafted BMP images. It is crucial to update to the patched versions to mitigate this risk. Users should also consider using Vulert for real-time monitoring of vulnerabilities in their software.

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FAQ

The vulnerability allows for code execution through a stack overflow triggered by specially crafted BMP images.

Versions prior to 2.0.3-r0 for v3.10, 2.0.3-r0 for v3.11, 2.0.1-r2 for v3.5 and v3.6, and 2.0.2-r1 for v3.7 are affected.

You can use Vulert to monitor and alert for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. Visit Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected without needing to sign up.

As a temporary measure, avoid using BMP images and implement input validation to mitigate the risk of exploitation.

The CVSS score of this vulnerability is 8.8, indicating a high severity level.

Related vulnerabilities

Recent vulnerabilities recorded for sdl2_image.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

2.0.3-r0

This is the first release that contains the fix.

sudo apk add --upgrade sdl2_image

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