CVE-2021-32617

What it is

Exiv2 is a command-line utility and C++ library for reading, writing, deleting, and modifying the metadata of image files. An inefficient algorithm (quadratic complexity) was found in Exiv2 versions v0.27.3 and earlier. The inefficient algorithm is triggered when Exiv2 is used to write metadata into a crafted image file. An attacker could potentially exploit the vulnerability to cause a denial of service, if they can trick the victim into running Exiv2 on a crafted image file. The bug is fixed in version v0.27.4. Note that this bug is only triggered when _writing_ the metadata, which is a less frequently used Exiv2 operation than _reading_ the metadata. For example, to trigger the bug in the Exiv2 command-line application, you need to add an extra command-line argument such as `rm`.

At a glance

Exploitability

Can be exploited locally on the machine without logging in, but needs a user to act. High risk of service disruption.

Exploit odds

1.2% chance of exploitation in the next 30 days (EPSS).

Fix

A patch, advisory or fixed version is referenced. Upgrade or apply it.

Timeline

1. 2021-05-17 18:15 UTC PublishedDisclosed publicly on CVE.org and NVD
2. 2026-06-17 03:53 UTC Last updatedMost recent change to the record

Why it ranks here

• Exploited in the wild: no, CISA does not list it.
• Exploit odds: 1.2% in the next 30 days (EPSS).
• Severity: 4.7 MEDIUM (CVSS).
• Fix: a patch or advisory is linked.

Details

Published

2021-05-17 18:15 UTC

Last modified

2026-06-17 03:53 UTC

Exploit probability

1.2% · EPSS, next 30 days

Weakness

CWE-400 · Uncontrolled resource consumption

Record status

Modified

Affected

• exiv2 < 0.27.4
• Fedoraproject Fedora 33
• Fedoraproject Fedora 34

Attack profile CVSS 3.1 · 4.7

Attack vector

Local

Complexity

High

Privileges needed

None

User interaction

Required

Scope

Unchanged

Confidentiality

None

Integrity

None

Availability

High

Is it in your code?

Hand this to your coding agent. It searches your project for the affected products and checks versions. Nothing leaves your machine.

Read https://cve-list.com/agent/cve/CVE-2021-32617.md and follow it. Check whether this project is affected by CVE-2021-32617. Read only. Don't change anything and don't upload my code. Tell me yes, no or not sure, with the file as proof.

Copy as ticket · More options · Status badge