CVE-2018-12543 : Security Advisory and Response

Eclipse Mosquitto versions 1.5 to 1.5.2 are affected by a vulnerability that triggers an unexpected error when a message with a topic starting with a dollar sign ($) that is not "$SYS" is sent. This leads to an assert error, causing Mosquitto to terminate.

Understanding CVE-2018-12543

This CVE entry details a vulnerability in Eclipse Mosquitto versions 1.5 to 1.5.2 that can be exploited by sending a specific type of message.

What is CVE-2018-12543?

The vulnerability in Eclipse Mosquitto versions 1.5 to 1.5.2 allows an attacker to trigger an assert error by sending a message with a topic starting with a dollar sign ($) that is not "$SYS".

The Impact of CVE-2018-12543

The vulnerability can lead to an unexpected error that triggers an assert not meant to be reached, resulting in the termination of Mosquitto.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-12543

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

When a message with a topic starting with $ (but not "$SYS") is sent to Eclipse Mosquitto versions 1.5 to 1.5.2, an assert error is triggered, leading to Mosquitto termination.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Eclipse Mosquitto
Vendor: The Eclipse Foundation
Versions Affected: 1.5 to 1.5.2

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability is exploited by sending a message with a topic starting with a dollar sign ($) that is not "$SYS".

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-12543 involves taking immediate and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Eclipse Mosquitto to a patched version if available.
Avoid sending messages with topics starting with a dollar sign ($) that are not "$SYS".

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch Eclipse Mosquitto to mitigate known vulnerabilities.
Implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure to potential attacks.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that Eclipse Mosquitto is regularly updated with the latest security patches to address vulnerabilities like CVE-2018-12543.