CVE-2017-18273 : Security Advisory and Response
Discover the impact of CVE-2017-18273 in ImageMagick version 7.0.7-16 Q16 x86_64 2017-12-22. Learn about the denial of service vulnerability and how to prevent exploitation.
A vulnerability has been discovered in version 7.0.7-16 Q16 x86_64 2017-12-22 of ImageMagick that allows attackers to trigger an infinite loop, leading to a denial of service attack by exhausting the CPU.
Understanding CVE-2017-18273
This CVE involves a vulnerability in ImageMagick version 7.0.7-16 Q16 x86_64 2017-12-22 that can be exploited to cause a denial of service attack.
What is CVE-2017-18273?
In ImageMagick 7.0.7-16 Q16 x86_64 2017-12-22, a vulnerability in the ReadTXTImage function within the coders/txt.c file allows attackers to exploit an infinite loop, leading to CPU exhaustion and a denial of service attack.
The Impact of CVE-2017-18273
Exploiting this vulnerability enables attackers to trigger an infinite loop, leading to a denial of service attack by exhausting the CPU. This can be accomplished by employing a malicious image file that is mishandled in a GetImageIndexInList call.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-18273
This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability is located in the ReadTXTImage function within the coders/txt.c file of ImageMagick.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: ImageMagick
- Version: 7.0.7-16 Q16 x86_64 2017-12-22
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by using a crafted image file that is mishandled in a GetImageIndexInList call.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2017-18273 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply security updates promptly.
- Implement proper input validation to prevent malicious image file exploitation.
- Monitor system resources for unusual CPU consumption.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and patches.
- Conduct security audits to identify and address vulnerabilities.
- Educate users on safe handling of image files.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that the latest security updates and patches for ImageMagick are installed to mitigate the risk of exploitation.