CVE-2018-16403 : Security Advisory and Response

A flaw in the libdw library within elfutils 0.173 leads to a heap-based buffer over-read, causing application crashes.

Understanding CVE-2018-16403

This CVE involves a vulnerability in the libdw library within elfutils 0.173, impacting specific functions and leading to a heap-based buffer over-read.

What is CVE-2018-16403?

The flaw affects the checks at the end of the attributes list in the dwarf_getabbrev function of dwarf_getabbrev.c and the dwarf_hasattr function of dwarf_hasattr.c.

The Impact of CVE-2018-16403

The vulnerability results in a heap-based buffer over-read, which can lead to application crashes and potentially exploitation by malicious actors.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-16403

This section provides detailed technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in libdw within elfutils 0.173 incorrectly checks the end of the attributes list in specific functions, causing a heap-based buffer over-read.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Not applicable
Vendor: Not applicable
Version: Not applicable

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by triggering the flawed checks at the end of the attributes list, leading to a heap-based buffer over-read and application crashes.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-16403 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply patches provided by the respective vendors promptly.
Monitor vendor advisories for updates and security patches.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and libraries to the latest versions.
Conduct security assessments and audits to identify and mitigate similar vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Refer to vendor-specific advisories for patching instructions and updates.