CVE-2017-12601 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

OpenCV version 3.3 and below are affected by a buffer overflow vulnerability in the cv::BmpDecoder::readData function. This vulnerability can be exploited when reading image files using the cv::imread function.

Understanding CVE-2017-12601

OpenCV (Open Source Computer Vision Library) version 3.3 and below contain a critical buffer overflow vulnerability that can be triggered during image file processing.

What is CVE-2017-12601?

The vulnerability exists in the cv::BmpDecoder::readData function within the modules/imgcodecs/src/grfmt_bmp.cpp file of OpenCV. It can be exploited by malicious actors when utilizing the cv::imread function to read image files.

The Impact of CVE-2017-12601

The vulnerability allows attackers to trigger a buffer overflow, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or denial of service (DoS) attacks on systems running the affected OpenCV versions.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-12601

OpenCV version 3.3 and below are susceptible to a buffer overflow vulnerability with the following technical details:

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability occurs in the cv::BmpDecoder::readData function in the grfmt_bmp.cpp file when processing image files using the cv::imread function.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: OpenCV
Vendor: N/A
Versions affected: 3.3 and below

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by crafting malicious image files that, when processed by the cv::imread function, trigger the buffer overflow in the cv::BmpDecoder::readData function.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2017-12601, consider the following mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update OpenCV to a patched version that addresses the buffer overflow vulnerability.
Implement proper input validation mechanisms to prevent malicious image files from triggering the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor security advisories and updates from OpenCV to stay informed about potential vulnerabilities.
Conduct security assessments and code reviews to identify and address similar buffer overflow issues in software.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by OpenCV promptly to mitigate the risk of exploitation through buffer overflow vulnerabilities.