CVE-2017-8786 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

In PCRE2 version 10.23, a vulnerability exists in the pcre2test.c file that can be exploited by remote attackers to cause a denial of service through a heap-based buffer overflow. This CVE was published on May 5, 2017, and affects certain systems.

Understanding CVE-2017-8786

PCRE2 10.23 vulnerability impacting the pcre2test.c file.

What is CVE-2017-8786?

PCRE2 10.23 allows remote attackers to perform a denial of service attack or potentially have other unspecified impacts by using a manipulated regular expression.

The Impact of CVE-2017-8786

The vulnerability can lead to a denial of service through a heap-based buffer overflow and may have other unknown effects when exploited.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-8786

Details about the vulnerability in PCRE2 version 10.23.

Vulnerability Description

The issue in pcre2test.c file allows remote attackers to trigger a heap-based buffer overflow, resulting in a denial of service.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Not applicable
Vendor: Not applicable
Version: 10.23

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit the vulnerability by using a manipulated regular expression to trigger the heap-based buffer overflow.

Mitigation and Prevention

Ways to address and prevent the CVE-2017-8786 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply relevant security patches provided by the vendor.
Monitor security advisories for any updates related to this vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and systems to the latest versions.
Implement network security measures to detect and prevent potential attacks.

Patching and Updates

Check for patches and updates from the PCRE2 vendor to address the vulnerability.