CVE-2018-16369 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

XRef::fetch function in Xpdf 4.00 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service by exploiting a manipulated pdf file. This vulnerability is related to AcroForm::scanField and has been demonstrated by pdftohtml.

Understanding CVE-2018-16369

This CVE entry was published on September 3, 2018, and is associated with Xpdf 4.00.

What is CVE-2018-16369?

The XRef::fetch function in Xpdf 4.00 enables remote attackers to potentially disrupt the functionality of a system (stack consumption) by exploiting a manipulated pdf file. This vulnerability is connected to the AcroForm::scanField function and has been demonstrated by the pdftohtml program. It should be noted that this issue may also be related to CVE-2018-7453.

The Impact of CVE-2018-16369

Remote attackers can cause a denial of service by exploiting a crafted pdf file
Stack consumption can lead to system disruption

Technical Details of CVE-2018-16369

XRef::fetch in XRef.cc in Xpdf 4.00 has the following technical details:

Vulnerability Description

XRef::fetch function allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (stack consumption) via a crafted pdf file, related to AcroForm::scanField, as demonstrated by pdftohtml.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Xpdf 4.00
Vendor: N/A
Version: N/A

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by manipulating a pdf file to trigger stack consumption and disrupt system functionality.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2018-16369, consider the following steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Xpdf to the latest version
Be cautious when opening pdf files from untrusted sources

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and apply security patches
Implement network segmentation to contain potential attacks

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely patching of Xpdf and other software to mitigate known vulnerabilities.