CVE-2018-14679 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A problem was identified in the file "chmd.c" in the library "libmspack" prior to version 0.7alpha. The issue is related to the CHM PMGI/PMGL chunk number validity checks and involves an off-by-one error. This error has the potential to cause denial of service, specifically an uninitialized data dereference and subsequent application crash.

Understanding CVE-2018-14679

What is CVE-2018-14679?

An issue was discovered in mspack/chmd.c in libmspack before 0.7alpha. There is an off-by-one error in the CHM PMGI/PMGL chunk number validity checks, which could lead to denial of service (uninitialized data dereference and application crash).

The Impact of CVE-2018-14679

The vulnerability in libmspack could result in a denial of service attack, causing an uninitialized data dereference and application crash.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-14679

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability is due to an off-by-one error in the CHM PMGI/PMGL chunk number validity checks in the file "chmd.c" of libmspack before version 0.7alpha.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: N/A
Vendor: N/A
Versions affected: N/A

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by an attacker to trigger an uninitialized data dereference, leading to a denial of service condition and potential application crash.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update libmspack to version 0.7alpha or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor vendor security advisories for patches and updates.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and libraries to the latest versions.
Implement proper input validation and boundary checks in applications to prevent similar vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by the vendor promptly to address the vulnerability and enhance system security.