Out-of-Bounds Read in NetSurf libnsbmp

Executive Summary

NetSurf libnsbmp through version 0.1.7 has an out-of-bounds read vulnerability in the bmp_decode_mask() function. Attackers can exploit this by providing crafted ICO files where the inner bitmap width is not a multiple of 8. This causes a heap over-read, allowing attackers to read one byte past the image buffer and potentially crash applications using bmp_decode().

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Detection Guidance

Detecting this vulnerability requires analyzing ICO files for non-multiple-of-8 bitmap widths. Use tools like file inspection utilities or custom scripts to check bitmap dimensions in ICO files. No direct commands are provided in the context.

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Impact Analysis

This vulnerability can cause applications using libnsbmp to crash when processing malicious ICO files. It may lead to denial-of-service conditions or unexpected behavior in software that relies on libnsbmp for image processing.

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Compliance Impact

This vulnerability does not directly affect compliance with GDPR, HIPAA, or similar standards as it is a technical flaw in image processing that could lead to application crashes or information exposure. However, if exploited, it might result in unauthorized data access or processing disruptions, which could indirectly impact compliance depending on the affected system's role in handling sensitive data.

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Mitigation Strategies

Update NetSurf libnsbmp to a version beyond 0.1.7. Avoid processing untrusted ICO files until patched. Monitor applications using libnsbmp for crashes or memory corruption.

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