CVE-2017-17509 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

In the version 1.10.1 of HDF5, a vulnerability exists in the function H5G__ent_decode_vec in H5Gcache.c inside libhdf5.a, allowing for an out-of-bounds write. Opening a specially crafted hdf5 file could lead to a crash of h5dump or other unspecified consequences.

Understanding CVE-2017-17509

This CVE entry describes a specific vulnerability in HDF5 version 1.10.1.

What is CVE-2017-17509?

CVE-2017-17509 is an out-of-bounds write vulnerability in the function H5G__ent_decode_vec in H5Gcache.c within libhdf5.a in HDF5 version 1.10.1.

The Impact of CVE-2017-17509

The vulnerability could result in a crash of h5dump or potentially cause other unspecified consequences when a specially crafted hdf5 file is opened.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-17509

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows for an out-of-bounds write in the H5G__ent_decode_vec function in H5Gcache.c within libhdf5.a.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Not applicable
Vendor: Not applicable
Version: 1.10.1 (affected)

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by opening a specially crafted hdf5 file, triggering the out-of-bounds write.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-17509 requires specific actions.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches provided by the vendor promptly.
Avoid opening untrusted or suspicious hdf5 files.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and libraries to the latest versions.
Implement proper input validation to prevent malicious file execution.
Conduct security audits and code reviews to identify and address vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that the HDF5 software is updated to a version that includes a fix for the out-of-bounds write vulnerability.