CVE-2017-5974 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A remote attacker can cause a crash in zziplib versions 0.13.62, 0.13.61, 0.13.60, 0.13.59, 0.13.58, 0.13.57, and 0.13.56 by exploiting a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability in the fetch.c file's __zzip_get32 function. This can be achieved by sending a specifically crafted ZIP file.

Understanding CVE-2017-5974

This CVE involves a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability in zziplib versions, allowing remote attackers to crash the system.

What is CVE-2017-5974?

CVE-2017-5974 is a security vulnerability in zziplib versions 0.13.56 to 0.13.62 that enables a remote attacker to trigger a denial of service (crash) by exploiting a specific function in the fetch.c file.

The Impact of CVE-2017-5974

The vulnerability allows attackers to remotely crash systems running affected zziplib versions, potentially disrupting services and causing system instability.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-5974

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability exists in the __zzip_get32 function in fetch.c in zziplib versions 0.13.56 to 0.13.62, enabling remote attackers to cause a denial of service (crash) through a maliciously crafted ZIP file.

Affected Systems and Versions

zziplib versions 0.13.56 to 0.13.62

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit a heap-based buffer overflow in the fetch.c file's __zzip_get32 function by sending a specially crafted ZIP file.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect systems from CVE-2017-5974 with the following measures:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update zziplib to a non-vulnerable version.
Implement network-level protections to filter out malicious ZIP files.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and libraries to patch known vulnerabilities.
Conduct security assessments and audits to identify and address potential weaknesses.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by zziplib to fix the heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability.