Out-of-Bounds Read in Netpbm Image Converter

Executive Summary

This vulnerability is an out-of-bounds read flaw in the Netpbm library's tgatoppm converter. The get_pixel() function uses pixel values from a Targa file as indexes into a color map without proper bounds checking. If an attacker crafts a Targa file with pixel values exceeding the declared color map size, the converter may crash or leak adjacent memory into the output image.

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Detection Guidance

To detect this vulnerability, check the version of Netpbm installed on your system using commands like 'netpbm -version' or 'dpkg -l | grep netpbm'. If the version is below 10.86.51, 11.02.30, or 11.15.08, the system is vulnerable. Monitor for crashes or unusual memory leaks when processing TGA files with tools like 'tgatoppm'.

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Impact Analysis

This vulnerability could allow attackers to crash the tgatoppm converter or expose sensitive memory contents in the output image. If you process untrusted Targa files with vulnerable Netpbm versions, your system may be affected by denial-of-service or information disclosure.

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Compliance Impact

This vulnerability could potentially impact compliance with GDPR and HIPAA by enabling unauthorized memory disclosure or crashes during image processing. If exploited, it may lead to exposure of sensitive data in memory or disruption of systems handling protected health or personal information.

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Mitigation Strategies

Immediately update Netpbm to a patched version (10.86.51 or later, 11.02.30 or later, or 11.15.08 or later). If updating is not possible, restrict access to the 'tgatoppm' converter and avoid processing untrusted TGA files until patched.

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