CVE-2018-16858 : Security Advisory and Response

A vulnerability in LibreOffice versions prior to 6.0.7 and 6.1.3 allowed a directory traversal attack, enabling the execution of arbitrary macros packaged with a document.

Understanding CVE-2018-16858

This CVE involves a security vulnerability in LibreOffice versions before 6.0.7 and 6.1.3 that could lead to the execution of arbitrary macros.

What is CVE-2018-16858?

The vulnerability in LibreOffice versions prior to 6.0.7 and 6.1.3 allowed for a directory traversal attack, enabling the execution of arbitrary macros packaged with a document. An attacker could trigger the execution of a Python method from a script located in any specified relative file system location.

The Impact of CVE-2018-16858

CVSS Base Score: 7.8 (High)
Attack Vector: Local
Attack Complexity: Low
Privileges Required: None
User Interaction: Required
Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability Impact: High
Scope: Unchanged

Technical Details of CVE-2018-16858

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allowed attackers to execute arbitrary macros bundled with a document, potentially leading to unauthorized access or malicious activities.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Product: LibreOffice
Affected Versions: 6.0.7, 6.1.3

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers could exploit this vulnerability by crafting a document that, when opened in LibreOffice, would execute a Python method from a script in any specified relative file system location.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update LibreOffice to version 6.0.7 or 6.1.3 to mitigate the vulnerability.
Be cautious when opening documents from untrusted sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and apply security patches promptly.
Educate users about the risks of executing macros from unknown sources.

Patching and Updates

Refer to vendor advisories and security updates for the latest patches and fixes.