CVE-2018-12983 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2018-12983, a denial-of-service vulnerability in PoDoFo 0.9.6-rc1 due to a stack-based buffer over-read. Find out how to mitigate and prevent exploitation of this vulnerability.
A denial-of-service vulnerability in PoDoFo 0.9.6-rc1 could be exploited by remote attackers through a crafted pdf file, involving a stack-based buffer over-read.
Understanding CVE-2018-12983
This CVE involves a vulnerability in the PdfEncryptMD5Base::ComputeEncryptionKey() function in the PdfEncrypt.cpp file.
What is CVE-2018-12983?
This CVE identifies a denial-of-service vulnerability in PoDoFo 0.9.6-rc1 that can be triggered by remote attackers using a specially crafted pdf file. The vulnerability is due to a stack-based buffer over-read in the PdfEncryptMD5Base::ComputeEncryptionKey() function.
The Impact of CVE-2018-12983
The vulnerability allows remote attackers to exploit the PdfEncryptMD5Base::ComputeEncryptionKey() function to cause a denial-of-service condition on the affected system.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-12983
This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability exists in the PdfEncryptMD5Base::ComputeEncryptionKey() function in the PdfEncrypt.cpp file of PoDoFo 0.9.6-rc1, leading to a stack-based buffer over-read.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: PoDoFo
- Vendor: N/A
- Versions: 0.9.6-rc1
Exploitation Mechanism
Remote attackers can exploit this vulnerability by using a specially crafted pdf file to trigger the stack-based buffer over-read in the PdfEncryptMD5Base::ComputeEncryptionKey() function.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2018-12983 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply vendor patches or updates promptly.
- Avoid opening pdf files from untrusted or unknown sources.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch software to address known vulnerabilities.
- Implement network security measures to detect and block malicious pdf files.
- Conduct security training to educate users on identifying and handling potential threats.
- Monitor security mailing lists for updates on vulnerabilities and patches.
- Consider using security tools to scan and analyze pdf files for potential threats.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that PoDoFo is updated to a secure version that addresses the vulnerability to prevent exploitation.