Discover the buffer overflow vulnerability in zsh before version 5.4 with CVE-2017-18206. Learn about the impact, affected systems, exploitation, and mitigation steps.
A buffer overflow vulnerability was identified in the symlink expansion of utils.c in zsh before version 5.4.
Understanding CVE-2017-18206
This CVE record highlights a buffer overflow issue in the zsh shell prior to version 5.4.
What is CVE-2017-18206?
In zsh versions before 5.4, a buffer overflow was discovered during symlink expansion in the utils.c file.
The Impact of CVE-2017-18206
The vulnerability could potentially allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code or crash the application, leading to a denial of service (DoS) condition.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-18206
This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in zsh before version 5.4 stemmed from a buffer overflow in the symlink expansion process within the utils.c file.
Affected Systems and Versions
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability could be exploited by crafting malicious symlinks that trigger the buffer overflow when processed by the affected zsh versions.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2017-18206 involves taking immediate and long-term security measures.
Immediate Steps to Take
Long-Term Security Practices
Patching and Updates