CVE-2023-45661 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This article provides detailed information about CVE-2023-45661, a vulnerability found in the stb_image library.

Understanding CVE-2023-45661

CVE-2023-45661 is a vulnerability in the stb_image library that allows for a wild address read in stbi__gif_load_next function. It is categorized as CWE-125: Out-of-bounds Read.

What is CVE-2023-45661?

stb_image is a single file MIT licensed library used for image processing. The vulnerability arises due to a crafted image file that can trigger an out-of-bounds memcpy read in

stbi__gif_load_next

function. The issue occurs because two_back points to a memory address lower than the start of the buffer out, potentially leading to leaking internal memory allocation information.

The Impact of CVE-2023-45661

This vulnerability has a CVSSv3 base score of 6.5, indicating a medium severity issue. With a low attack complexity and network attack vector, the confidentiality impact is low, integrity impact is none, and availability impact is low. No privileges are required for exploitation.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-45661

The following technical details outline the specifics of CVE-2023-45661:

Vulnerability Description

cwe-125: Out-of-bounds Read

Affected Systems and Versions

Vendor: nothings Product: stb Affected Versions: <= 2.28

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by using a crafted image file to trigger an out-of-bounds memcpy read in the stbi__gif_load_next function of the stb_image library.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-45661, the following steps can be taken:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the stb_image library to a version that includes a patch for the vulnerability.
Avoid opening image files from untrusted sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update libraries and software components to their latest secure versions.
Implement secure coding practices to prevent memory-related vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that the stb_image library is regularly patched and updated to mitigate the risk of exploitation.