CVE-2017-8314 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Kodi (XBMC) versions 17.1 and earlier are susceptible to a Directory Traversal vulnerability that allows unauthorized writing of files on the disk by exploiting a Zip file as subtitles.

Understanding CVE-2017-8314

The vulnerability in Kodi (XBMC) versions 17.1 and earlier poses a risk of arbitrary file write on the disk.

What is CVE-2017-8314?

The built-in Zip Extraction function in Kodi versions 17.1 and earlier is vulnerable to Directory Traversal, enabling unauthorized writing of files on the disk by leveraging a Zip file as subtitles.

The Impact of CVE-2017-8314

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to write files on the disk without authorization.
This could lead to unauthorized access and manipulation of sensitive data on affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-8314

Kodi (XBMC) versions 17.1 and earlier are affected by a critical vulnerability that allows arbitrary file write on the disk.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the Zip Extraction function of Kodi (XBMC) versions 17.1 and earlier permits Directory Traversal, facilitating unauthorized file writing on the disk through a Zip file acting as subtitles.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Kodi (XBMC)
Vendor: XBMC Foundation
Versions Affected: <= v17.1

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit a specially crafted Zip file posing as subtitles to write files on the disk without proper authorization.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take:

Update Kodi to a non-vulnerable version above 17.1.
Avoid opening Zip files from untrusted sources. Long-Term Security Practices:
Regularly update Kodi and other software to the latest secure versions.
Implement proper file system permissions to restrict unauthorized file writing.
Educate users on safe file handling practices.
Monitor and restrict access to sensitive directories.

Patching and Updates

XBMC Foundation has released patches to address the vulnerability in newer versions of Kodi.
Users are advised to promptly update their Kodi installations to versions beyond 17.1 to mitigate the risk of unauthorized file writing.