CVE-2021-28677 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

An issue was discovered in Pillow before version 8.2.0 that affects EPS data processing, leading to a potential Denial of Service (DoS) vulnerability.

Understanding CVE-2021-28677

This CVE relates to a vulnerability in the Pillow library that could be exploited by a malicious EPS file to trigger a DoS attack in the open phase, impacting the integrity of the image processing.

What is CVE-2021-28677?

The vulnerability in Pillow versions prior to 8.2.0 lies in the incorrect handling of line endings in EPS data, potentially allowing malicious EPS files to disrupt Pillow's functionality before image opening.

The Impact of CVE-2021-28677

Exploitation of this vulnerability could result in a DoS attack, causing Pillow to become unresponsive or crash, affecting the availability and stability of the image processing functionality.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-28677

The technical details of this CVE involve how the EPSImageFile readline implementation in Pillow accumulates lines while processing line endings.

Vulnerability Description

Pillow's EPSImageFile readline implementation inadvertently uses a quadratic method to accumulate lines, which can be leveraged by a malicious EPS file to trigger a DoS attack in the open phase.

Affected Systems and Versions

All versions of Pillow library before 8.2.0 are affected by this vulnerability, potentially impacting systems utilizing Pillow for EPS image processing.

Exploitation Mechanism

An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by crafting a malicious EPS file that manipulates the line endings in a way that triggers the quadratic method of line accumulation, leading to a DoS condition.

Mitigation and Prevention

To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-28677, users are advised to take immediate action and follow long-term security best practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade to Pillow version 8.2.0 or later to address the vulnerability and prevent potential DoS attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software components and libraries to ensure the latest security patches are applied.
Implement network-level protections to detect and block malicious activity targeting EPS processing.

Patching and Updates

Software vendors should release patches addressing CVE-2021-28677 promptly to safeguard users from exploitation and ensure the continued security of image processing functionalities.