CVE-2018-11731 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE-2018-11731 article provides insights into an information disclosure vulnerability in libfsntfs that allows remote attackers to exploit a heap-based buffer over-read.

Understanding CVE-2018-11731

What is CVE-2018-11731?

The CVE-2018-11731 vulnerability involves a heap-based buffer over-read that can be triggered by remote attackers using a specially crafted ntfs file in the libfsntfs_mft_entry_read_attributes function in libfsntfs before 2018-04-20.

The Impact of CVE-2018-11731

The vulnerability allows remote attackers to disclose information, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive data.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-11731

Vulnerability Description

The libfsntfs_mft_entry_read_attributes function in libfsntfs_mft_entry.c in libfsntfs before 2018-04-20 is susceptible to a heap-based buffer over-read, enabling attackers to exploit the system.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Not applicable
Vendor: Not applicable
Versions: All versions of libfsntfs before 2018-04-20

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by using a specially crafted ntfs file to trigger the heap-based buffer over-read in the libfsntfs_mft_entry_read_attributes function.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Monitor vendor updates and patches for any resolution to this vulnerability.
Implement network security measures to detect and block potential attacks exploiting this vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and libraries to the latest versions to mitigate known vulnerabilities.
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address potential weaknesses.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches and updates provided by the vendor to address the vulnerability in libfsntfs.