CVE-2017-6436 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability in the parse_string_node function of libimobiledevice libplist 1.12 can lead to a denial of service attack by local attackers through a specially crafted plist file.

Understanding CVE-2017-6436

This CVE entry describes a vulnerability in libimobiledevice libplist 1.12 that can be exploited by local attackers to trigger a denial of service condition.

What is CVE-2017-6436?

The vulnerability in the parse_string_node function of libimobiledevice libplist 1.12 allows local attackers to cause a denial of service by providing a specially crafted plist file that triggers a memory allocation error.

The Impact of CVE-2017-6436

The vulnerability can be exploited by local attackers to trigger a denial of service condition, potentially disrupting the normal operation of the affected system.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-6436

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE-2017-6436 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The parse_string_node function in bplist.c in libimobiledevice libplist 1.12 allows local users to cause a denial of service (memory allocation error) via a crafted plist file.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Not applicable
Vendor: Not applicable
Version: Not applicable

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by local attackers through a specially crafted plist file that triggers a memory allocation error.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2017-6436, follow these mitigation and prevention strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the security update provided by the vendor promptly.
Avoid opening plist files from untrusted or unknown sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to mitigate potential vulnerabilities.
Implement proper file validation mechanisms to prevent the execution of malicious plist files.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that the libimobiledevice libplist software is updated to the latest version to patch the vulnerability.