External risk intelligence

ImageMagick Arbitrary Code Execution Vulnerability

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2016-3714

A vulnerability in ImageMagick allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via crafted images. This impacts systems processing images, posing risks of unauthorized access, data compromise, and system takeover. Organizations should identify and secure affected systems.The ImageMagick vulnerability allows remote at

4Halo Surface Signal

Imagemagick

6.9.3-9 and earlier7.0.0-07.0.1-012.0414.0415.1016.048.09.042.113.212

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2016-3714

ImageMagick is a widely used image processing library frequently integrated into web applications, APIs, and content management systems to handle user-uploaded files. While a library itself, its role in processing externally sourced content makes it a common feature in internet-facing services where public-facing endpoints are designed to accept and process images.

CVSS vector

CVSS:3.1/AV:L/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

ImageMagick, a widely used image processing tool, contains a flaw that can allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code. This vulnerability arises from how the software handles certain image formats and coding methods, enabling attackers to inject malicious commands through specially crafted image files. The impact of such an attack could lead to unauthorized control of affected systems.

  • Image processing functions
  • Improper handling of image inputs
  • System compromise and data loss

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

ImageMagick processes crafted image files that contain shell metacharacters. This can enable remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. Organizations using vulnerable versions of ImageMagick may face risks associated with unauthorized code execution and potential system compromise. The vulnerability impacts the integrity and confidentiality of data processed by the application.

  • Exposure through crafted images.
  • Attacker sends malicious image file.
  • ImageMagick executes arbitrary code.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability in ImageMagick allows for arbitrary code execution, posing a significant risk to affected organizations. Attackers can exploit this by crafting malicious image files that, when processed by vulnerable ImageMagick installations, can lead to the execution of unauthorized commands. This could result in the compromise of systems, data theft, or complete system takeover, depending on the privileges of the ImageMagick process. The potential for widespread impact makes this a critical issue for organizations utilizing this software.

  • Low attacker skill level required.
  • No special access or conditions needed.
  • High business risk and urgency.

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

This vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary code by sending a specially crafted image file. Organizations utilizing ImageMagick should take immediate steps to identify and secure potentially affected systems. The risk involves the potential for unauthorized code execution on systems processing image files.

  • Find all systems processing images with ImageMagick.
  • Limit exposure by restricting ImageMagick's capabilities.
  • Update ImageMagick, verify the fix, and monitor systems.

Frequently asked questions

What is ImageMagick and its primary function?

ImageMagick is a powerful, free, and open-source suite of tools used for creating, editing, and converting bitmap images. It supports a vast array of image formats and is commonly integrated into web applications, content management systems, and other software that requires image manipulation or display capabilities.

How does CVE-2016-3714 enable arbitrary code execution?

The vulnerability, classified as improper input validation (CWE-20), occurs when ImageMagick processes specially crafted image files. These files can contain shell metacharacters that trick the software into executing arbitrary commands, allowing an attacker to run unintended code on the system.

What specific ImageMagick coders are affected by the vulnerability?

The vulnerability impacts several coders within ImageMagick, including EPHEMERAL, HTTPS, MVG, MSL, TEXT, SHOW, WIN, and PLT. Exploitation typically involves providing a malicious image file that triggers code execution through one of these coders.

What is the relevance of the ImageTragick vulnerability (CVE-2016-3714)?

The ImageTragick vulnerability is highly relevant because ImageMagick is a common component in many software systems that process images. Attackers can exploit this flaw by submitting a crafted image, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution and system compromise. This poses a significant risk to organizations relying on ImageMagick for image processing functions, especially in web applications that handle user-uploaded content.

What steps should organizations take to address the ImageMagick vulnerability?

Organizations should promptly identify all systems utilizing vulnerable versions of ImageMagick, apply vendor-provided updates, and monitor systems for suspicious activity. Limiting the capabilities of ImageMagick where possible can also help reduce the attack surface. Verifying that the updates have been successfully applied is crucial for ensuring the fix is effective.

References

Sources and related resources

Primary sources: NVD, CVE.org, CISA KEV.

NVDPublished Modified