CVE-2023-52355 is an out-of-bounds write vulnerability identified in the libtiff library, specifically within the TIFFRasterScanlineSize64() API. The flaw arises due to an out-of-memory condition triggered by processing a specially crafted TIFF file with a size smaller than 379 KB. When this malformed input is parsed, the function miscalculates or mishandles memory allocation or indexing, leading to an out-of-bounds write. This memory corruption can cause a denial of service by crashing the application or exhausting system memory. The vulnerability is remotely exploitable without requiring any privileges or user interaction, as it can be triggered simply by processing a malicious TIFF image. LibTIFF is widely used in various software and systems for handling TIFF images, including image viewers, editors, document management systems, and embedded devices. Although no public exploits are known at this time, the CVSS score of 7.5 (high) reflects the significant impact on availability and the ease of exploitation. The vulnerability does not affect confidentiality or integrity directly but can disrupt services relying on image processing. The flaw was published on January 25, 2024, and no patches or vendor advisories are currently linked, indicating that mitigation may rely on upstream fixes or workarounds. Organizations using libtiff should monitor for updates and consider temporary mitigations such as input validation or sandboxing TIFF processing components.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2023-52355 is the potential denial of service caused by processing malicious TIFF files. This can disrupt critical workflows in sectors such as media, publishing, healthcare (medical imaging), government, and any industry relying on document management or image processing software that uses libtiff. The ease of remote exploitation without authentication increases the risk of automated attacks or exploitation via malicious email attachments, web uploads, or network services handling TIFF images. Disruptions could lead to operational downtime, loss of productivity, and potential reputational damage. While no data breach or code execution is indicated, availability impacts can be severe for services requiring high uptime. Embedded systems or IoT devices using libtiff may also be vulnerable, potentially affecting industrial control systems or smart infrastructure in Europe. The lack of known exploits currently reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially as attackers may develop exploits once patches are released.

1. Monitor official libtiff repositories and security advisories for patches addressing CVE-2023-52355 and apply them promptly upon release. 2. Implement strict input validation and filtering to block or quarantine TIFF files from untrusted sources, especially those under 379 KB that could exploit this flaw. 3. Use sandboxing or containerization techniques to isolate image processing components, limiting the impact of potential crashes or memory exhaustion. 4. Employ runtime memory protection tools such as AddressSanitizer or similar to detect anomalous memory operations during TIFF processing in development and testing environments. 5. Review and restrict network services and applications that automatically process TIFF files, adding user confirmation or scanning steps to reduce automated exploitation risk. 6. Maintain up-to-date intrusion detection and prevention systems capable of recognizing malformed TIFF payloads or unusual traffic patterns. 7. For embedded or IoT devices using libtiff, coordinate with vendors for firmware updates or consider disabling TIFF processing if not essential. 8. Educate users and administrators about the risks of opening unsolicited TIFF files and encourage cautious handling of image attachments.