CVE-2017-16942 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2017-16942, a divide-by-zero vulnerability in libsndfile library versions 1.0.25 to 1.0.26, potentially leading to a Denial-of-Service (DoS) scenario. Find out how to mitigate and prevent this vulnerability.
CVE-2017-16942 was published on November 25, 2017, by MITRE. It involves a divide-by-zero vulnerability in the libsndfile library versions 1.0.25 to 1.0.26, potentially leading to a Denial-of-Service (DoS) scenario.
Understanding CVE-2017-16942
This CVE entry highlights a specific vulnerability in the libsndfile library that could be exploited to cause a DoS situation.
What is CVE-2017-16942?
The vulnerability exists in the function wav_w64_read_fmt_chunk() within the libsndfile library versions 1.0.25 to 1.0.26. An attacker could trigger a divide-by-zero error by manipulating a crafted audio file, leading to a potential DoS attack.
The Impact of CVE-2017-16942
The exploitation of this vulnerability could result in a Denial-of-Service (DoS) condition, disrupting the normal functionality of the affected system.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-16942
This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE entry.
Vulnerability Description
The divide-by-zero error in the function wav_w64_read_fmt_chunk() in wav_w64.c of libsndfile versions 1.0.25 to 1.0.26 can be exploited to cause a DoS condition.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected versions: libsndfile 1.0.25 to 1.0.26
- Systems using the vulnerable versions of the libsndfile library
Exploitation Mechanism
- An attacker manipulates a specially crafted audio file to trigger the divide-by-zero error
- The vulnerability is present in the wav_w64_read_fmt_chunk() function
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2017-16942 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update the libsndfile library to version 1.0.26 or later
- Monitor for any unusual system behavior that could indicate a DoS attack
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and libraries to patch known vulnerabilities
- Implement network security measures to detect and prevent DoS attacks
Patching and Updates
- Apply patches provided by the libsndfile library to address the divide-by-zero vulnerability