CVE-2017-12606 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

OpenCV version 3.3 or earlier has a vulnerability in the FillColorRow4 function in utils.cpp, leading to an out-of-bounds write when reading image files using cv::imread.

Understanding CVE-2017-12606

OpenCV vulnerability impacting versions 3.3 and earlier.

What is CVE-2017-12606?

The flaw in the FillColorRow4 function in utils.cpp of OpenCV versions 3.3 and earlier allows for an out-of-bounds write during image file reading using cv::imread.

The Impact of CVE-2017-12606

The vulnerability can be exploited to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (DoS) attack.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-12606

Details of the vulnerability in OpenCV version 3.3 or earlier.

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises from an out-of-bounds write error in the FillColorRow4 function in utils.cpp when processing image files with cv::imread.

Affected Systems and Versions

OpenCV version 3.3 and earlier

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting a malicious image file to trigger the out-of-bounds write.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to address and prevent the CVE-2017-12606 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches provided by OpenCV promptly.
Avoid opening image files from untrusted sources.
Monitor vendor security advisories for updates.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update OpenCV to the latest version.
Implement proper input validation in image processing functions.

Patching and Updates

Update OpenCV to version 3.4 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.