CVE-2017-5545 : What You Need to Know

CVE-2017-5545 was published on January 21, 2017, and affects the libimobiledevice libplist library up to version 1.12. Attackers can exploit a vulnerability in the main function of plistutil.c to extract sensitive data or cause a denial of service.

Understanding CVE-2017-5545

This CVE entry describes a vulnerability in the libimobiledevice libplist library that allows attackers to manipulate Apple Property List data to compromise targeted processes.

What is CVE-2017-5545?

The vulnerability in the main function of plistutil.c within libimobiledevice libplist library up to version 1.12 enables attackers to extract sensitive data from process memory or trigger a denial of service by exploiting insufficiently long Apple Property List data.

The Impact of CVE-2017-5545

The exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information stored in the memory of the affected process or result in a denial of service condition due to a buffer over-read.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-5545

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The main function in plistutil.c within libimobiledevice libplist through version 1.12 allows attackers to obtain sensitive information from process memory or cause a denial of service through a buffer over-read by using Apple Property List data that is too short.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Not applicable
Vendor: Not applicable
Versions affected: Up to version 1.12

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the vulnerability by manipulating Apple Property List data of insufficient length to extract sensitive information from the targeted process or trigger a denial of service by causing a buffer over-read.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2017-5545, follow these mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the libimobiledevice libplist library to a patched version.
Monitor for any unusual activities that might indicate exploitation of the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and libraries to the latest secure versions.
Implement secure coding practices to prevent buffer over-read vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by the libimobiledevice libplist library maintainers.