CVE-2017-11118 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2017-11118, a vulnerability in OpenExif 2.1.4 allowing denial of service attacks via crafted jpg files. Find mitigation steps and prevention measures here.
OpenExif 2.1.4 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service through a crafted jpg file, triggering an infinite loop and excessive CPU consumption.
Understanding CVE-2017-11118
What is CVE-2017-11118?
The vulnerability lies in the ExifImageFile::readImage function in ExifImageFileRead.cpp within OpenExif 2.1.4, enabling a denial of service attack.
The Impact of CVE-2017-11118
This vulnerability can be exploited by malicious actors to cause an infinite loop, leading to a denial of service condition and high CPU usage.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-11118
Vulnerability Description
A crafted jpg file can exploit the ExifImageFile::readImage function in OpenExif 2.1.4, resulting in a denial of service due to an infinite loop and excessive CPU consumption.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: OpenExif 2.1.4
- Vendor: N/A
- Version: N/A
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability is triggered by processing a specially crafted jpg file, causing the ExifImageFile::readImage function to enter an infinite loop.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Avoid opening or processing untrusted jpg files.
- Implement file type and content validation mechanisms.
- Consider using alternative image processing libraries.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and libraries to patch known vulnerabilities.
- Conduct security assessments and audits to identify and mitigate potential risks.
Patching and Updates
- Apply patches or updates provided by OpenExif to address this vulnerability.