CVE-2018-14471 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A crafted dwg file can result in a denial of service (NULL pointer dereference and SEGV) in dwg_obj_block_control_get_block_headers function in dwg_api.c of GNU LibreDWG 0.5.1048.

Understanding CVE-2018-14471

This CVE involves a vulnerability in GNU LibreDWG 0.5.1048 that allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service through a crafted dwg file.

What is CVE-2018-14471?

CVE-2018-14471 is a vulnerability in GNU LibreDWG 0.5.1048 that can be exploited by remote attackers to trigger a denial of service by causing a NULL pointer dereference and SEGV through a specially crafted dwg file.

The Impact of CVE-2018-14471

The impact of this vulnerability is the potential for a denial of service attack, which can disrupt the normal operation of the affected system.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-14471

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability exists in the dwg_obj_block_control_get_block_headers function in dwg_api.c of GNU LibreDWG 0.5.1048, allowing remote attackers to exploit it for a denial of service attack.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Product: GNU LibreDWG 0.5.1048
Affected Version: Not applicable

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by remote attackers through a crafted dwg file to trigger a NULL pointer dereference and SEGV, leading to a denial of service.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-14471 requires specific actions to mitigate the risk and prevent exploitation.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches or updates provided by the vendor.
Avoid opening or accessing untrusted dwg files.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications to the latest versions.
Implement network security measures to detect and block malicious activities.

Patching and Updates

Check for patches or updates released by GNU LibreDWG to address the vulnerability.