CVE-2017-17786 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

GIMP version 2.8.22 has a heap-based buffer over-read vulnerability in the ReadImage function, specifically in the file-tga.c file within the plug-ins/common directory. This vulnerability is triggered by an unexpected bits-per-pixel value for an RGBA image.

Understanding CVE-2017-17786

This CVE entry details a specific vulnerability in GIMP version 2.8.22.

What is CVE-2017-17786?

CVE-2017-17786 is a heap-based buffer over-read vulnerability in GIMP version 2.8.22, affecting the ReadImage function in the file-tga.c file.

The Impact of CVE-2017-17786

The vulnerability allows for potential exploitation by triggering the issue with a specific image format, leading to a heap-based buffer over-read.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-17786

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in GIMP version 2.8.22 arises from an unexpected bits-per-pixel value for an RGBA image, leading to a heap-based buffer over-read in the ReadImage function.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: GIMP
Vendor: N/A
Version: 2.8.22

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability is exploited by providing a specific image format with unexpected bits-per-pixel values, triggering the heap-based buffer over-read.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-17786 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update GIMP to a patched version that addresses the heap-based buffer over-read vulnerability.
Avoid opening untrusted or suspicious image files.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and plugins to mitigate known vulnerabilities.
Implement network and system monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates for GIMP to address the vulnerability.