CVE-2024-41439 identifies a heap buffer overflow vulnerability in the cp_block() function within the /vendor/cute_png.h file of the hicolor library version 0.5.0. The vulnerability arises due to improper bounds checking when processing PNG image data, allowing an attacker to craft a malicious PNG file that triggers a buffer overflow on the heap. This overflow can corrupt memory, leading to a Denial of Service (DoS) by crashing the application or potentially the host system. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-787 (Out-of-bounds Write). Exploitation requires local access and user interaction, as the malicious PNG must be opened or processed by the vulnerable software. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 5.5 (medium severity), reflecting the limited attack vector (local), low complexity, no privileges required, but requiring user interaction. There is no impact on confidentiality or integrity, only availability. No patches or fixes have been published at the time of disclosure, and no known exploits are reported in the wild. The vulnerability affects software components that incorporate hicolor 0.5.0 for PNG processing, which may be embedded in various multimedia or graphical applications.

The primary impact of CVE-2024-41439 is a Denial of Service condition caused by application or system crashes when processing malicious PNG files. This can disrupt services or user workflows, especially in environments where PNG images are frequently handled, such as graphic design, content management, or multimedia applications. While the vulnerability does not allow data theft or code execution, repeated exploitation could degrade system reliability and availability. Organizations relying on hicolor 0.5.0 or software that bundles this library may face operational interruptions. Additionally, attackers could use this vulnerability to target specific users or systems by delivering crafted PNG files via email, downloads, or shared media, causing targeted service disruptions. The lack of known exploits reduces immediate risk, but the absence of patches means the vulnerability remains open for future exploitation.

1. Avoid processing PNG files from untrusted or unauthenticated sources until a patch is available. 2. Implement strict input validation and sandboxing for applications that handle PNG images to contain potential crashes. 3. Monitor application logs and system stability for signs of crashes or abnormal behavior related to image processing. 4. Employ application whitelisting and restrict execution of unknown or suspicious files. 5. If possible, replace or update the hicolor library to a version without this vulnerability once released. 6. Use network-level controls to block or quarantine suspicious image files in email gateways or file transfer systems. 7. Educate users about the risks of opening unexpected or unsolicited image files. 8. Consider deploying runtime protection tools that can detect and mitigate heap buffer overflows dynamically.