CVE-2018-10768 : Security Advisory and Response

In the Annot.h file of an Ubuntu package for Poppler 0.24.5, a vulnerability exists in the AnnotPath::getCoordsLength function, leading to a NULL pointer dereference. This flaw can be exploited by an attacker to trigger a remote denial of service attack. Notably, this vulnerability does not impact later Ubuntu packages, specifically those for Poppler 0.41.0.

Understanding CVE-2018-10768

This CVE involves a specific vulnerability in the AnnotPath::getCoordsLength function within the Poppler package for Ubuntu 0.24.5.

What is CVE-2018-10768?

The vulnerability in the AnnotPath::getCoordsLength function allows for a NULL pointer dereference, which can be abused by an attacker to execute a remote denial of service attack.

The Impact of CVE-2018-10768

The exploitation of this vulnerability can result in a remote denial of service attack, potentially disrupting the availability of the affected system.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-10768

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the AnnotPath::getCoordsLength function in the Annot.h file of the Poppler 0.24.5 package for Ubuntu allows for a NULL pointer dereference.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected System: Ubuntu package for Poppler 0.24.5
Affected Version: Poppler 0.24.5

Exploitation Mechanism

An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by providing a carefully crafted input to trigger the NULL pointer dereference, leading to a remote denial of service attack.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2018-10768, the following steps can be taken:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security updates provided by the vendor promptly.
Monitor vendor advisories and security mailing lists for patches and updates.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and packages to mitigate known vulnerabilities.
Implement network security measures to detect and prevent potential attacks.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that the affected systems are updated with the latest patches and security fixes.