CVE-2019-12211 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

FreeImage 3.18.0's PluginTIFF.cpp Load function encounters a heap overflow when reading a tiff file due to a memcpy operation that overlooks the destination address and data size.

Understanding CVE-2019-12211

This CVE involves a vulnerability in FreeImage 3.18.0 that leads to a heap overflow during the processing of tiff files.

What is CVE-2019-12211?

When FreeImage 3.18.0 reads a tiff file, the Load function in PluginTIFF.cpp triggers a heap overflow due to an unchecked memcpy operation.

The Impact of CVE-2019-12211

The vulnerability allows attackers to potentially execute arbitrary code or crash the application by exploiting the heap overflow.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-12211

FreeImage 3.18.0's PluginTIFF.cpp file is susceptible to a heap overflow vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from a memcpy operation that fails to consider the destination address and size of the data being copied, leading to a heap overflow.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: FreeImage 3.18.0
Vendor: N/A
Version: N/A

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting a malicious tiff file that triggers the unchecked memcpy operation, causing a heap overflow.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2019-12211, follow these mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update FreeImage to a patched version that addresses the heap overflow vulnerability.
Avoid opening tiff files from untrusted or unknown sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and libraries to patch known vulnerabilities.
Implement secure coding practices to prevent buffer overflows and memory corruption.

Patching and Updates

Check for security advisories from FreeImage and apply patches promptly to mitigate the risk of heap overflows.