CVE-2018-12098 : Security Advisory and Response

CVE-2018-12098 pertains to a vulnerability in the liblnk software that allows remote attackers to disclose information through a crafted lnk file. The vendor has disputed this claim.

Understanding CVE-2018-12098

What is CVE-2018-12098?

The liblnk_data_block_read function in liblnk software, up to the version released on April 19, 2018, contains a vulnerability that enables remote attackers to exploit a heap-based buffer over-read, leading to information disclosure.

The Impact of CVE-2018-12098

This vulnerability allows remote attackers to access sensitive information by manipulating specially crafted lnk files, potentially compromising system security.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-12098

Vulnerability Description

The liblnk_data_block_read function in liblnk through 2018-04-19 permits remote attackers to trigger an information disclosure via a crafted lnk file, exploiting a heap-based buffer over-read.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Not applicable
Vendor: Not applicable
Versions: Up to the release on April 19, 2018

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability is exploited by using a specially crafted lnk file to trigger a heap-based buffer over-read, allowing remote attackers to access sensitive information.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Avoid opening lnk files from untrusted or unknown sources.
Implement file integrity checks to detect malicious lnk files.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update the liblnk software to the latest version.
Conduct security audits to identify and address potential vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that the liblnk software is regularly patched and updated to mitigate known vulnerabilities.