CVE-2017-7857 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2017-7857, a critical out-of-bounds write vulnerability in FreeType 2 before 2017-03-08. Understand the impact, affected systems, exploitation, and mitigation steps.
FreeType 2 prior to 2017-03-08 is vulnerable to an out-of-bounds write due to a heap-based buffer overflow. This vulnerability is associated with specific functions within the FreeType library.
Understanding CVE-2017-7857
This CVE entry highlights a critical security issue in FreeType 2 that could lead to a heap-based buffer overflow.
What is CVE-2017-7857?
An out-of-bounds write vulnerability was identified in FreeType 2 before 2017-03-08, primarily linked to the TT_Get_MM_Var function in truetype/ttgxvar.c and the sfnt_init_face function in sfnt/sfobjs.c.
The Impact of CVE-2017-7857
This vulnerability could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service by exploiting the heap-based buffer overflow in FreeType 2.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-7857
FreeType 2 is susceptible to a critical out-of-bounds write vulnerability, as detailed below:
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability stems from a heap-based buffer overflow related to the TT_Get_MM_Var function and the sfnt_init_face function in FreeType 2.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: FreeType 2
- Vendor: N/A
- Versions: All versions prior to 2017-03-08
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting malicious font files or documents that, when processed by FreeType 2, trigger the heap-based buffer overflow.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2017-7857, consider the following mitigation strategies:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update FreeType 2 to a version released after 2017-03-08 to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Monitor security advisories from relevant vendors for patches and updates.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and libraries to the latest versions to prevent known vulnerabilities.
- Implement proper input validation and boundary checks in applications that utilize FreeType 2.
Patching and Updates
- Apply patches provided by FreeType or relevant vendors promptly to address the vulnerability and enhance system security.