CVE-2018-14883 : Security Advisory and Response

A vulnerability has been found in PHP versions prior to 5.6.37, 7.0.x prior to 7.0.31, 7.1.x prior to 7.1.20, and 7.2.x prior to 7.2.8. The flaw involves an Integer Overflow that causes a heap-based buffer over-read in the exif_thumbnail_extract function of the exif.c file.

Understanding CVE-2018-14883

This CVE entry highlights a critical vulnerability in multiple versions of PHP that could lead to a heap-based buffer over-read due to an Integer Overflow.

What is CVE-2018-14883?

CVE-2018-14883 is a security vulnerability identified in PHP versions before 5.6.37, 7.0.x before 7.0.31, 7.1.x before 7.1.20, and 7.2.x before 7.2.8. The issue arises from an Integer Overflow, resulting in a heap-based buffer over-read in the exif_thumbnail_extract function of the exif.c file.

The Impact of CVE-2018-14883

This vulnerability could be exploited by an attacker to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (DoS) condition on systems running the affected PHP versions.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-14883

This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE-2018-14883 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability stems from an Integer Overflow leading to a heap-based buffer over-read in the exif_thumbnail_extract function of the exif.c file in PHP versions prior to 5.6.37, 7.0.x before 7.0.31, 7.1.x before 7.1.20, and 7.2.x before 7.2.8.

Affected Systems and Versions

PHP versions before 5.6.37
PHP 7.0.x before 7.0.31
PHP 7.1.x before 7.1.20
PHP 7.2.x before 7.2.8

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by an attacker to trigger a heap-based buffer over-read by manipulating the exif_thumbnail_extract function.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-14883 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the latest security patches provided by PHP to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor official sources for updates and advisories related to this CVE.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update PHP to the latest versions to ensure security patches are in place.
Implement secure coding practices to prevent buffer overflows and other vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

PHP has released patches for the affected versions to address the Integer Overflow vulnerability. Ensure timely application of these patches to secure systems.