CVE-2017-6438 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2017-6438, a vulnerability in libimobiledevice libplist 1.12 allowing denial of service and code execution via crafted plist files. Find mitigation steps here.
CVE-2017-6438 involves a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability in libimobiledevice libplist 1.12, potentially leading to denial of service and arbitrary code execution.
Understanding CVE-2017-6438
This CVE was published on March 15, 2017, with a public disclosure date of February 7, 2017.
What is CVE-2017-6438?
The vulnerability lies in the parse_unicode_node function in bplist.c within libimobiledevice libplist 1.12. Local users can exploit this flaw by crafting a malicious plist file to trigger a heap-based buffer overflow.
The Impact of CVE-2017-6438
The vulnerability can allow attackers to execute arbitrary code and cause denial of service by triggering an out-of-bounds write. The attack vector involves carefully manipulating a plist file.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-6438
This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in libimobiledevice libplist 1.12 allows local users to perform a denial of service attack and potentially execute arbitrary code through a crafted plist file.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Not applicable
- Vendor: Not applicable
- Version: 1.12 (affected)
Exploitation Mechanism
The exploitation involves local users leveraging the parse_unicode_node function in bplist.c to trigger a heap-based buffer overflow, leading to out-of-bounds write and potential code execution.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2017-6438 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply security patches promptly to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Restrict access to vulnerable systems to trusted users only.
- Monitor plist file interactions for any suspicious activities.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch software to address known vulnerabilities.
- Conduct security training for users to recognize and report suspicious activities.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that the libimobiledevice libplist software is updated to a patched version that addresses the heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability.