CVE-2018-19215 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2018-19215 affecting Netwide Assembler (NASM) version 2.14rc16. Discover the impact, technical details, affected systems, exploitation mechanism, and mitigation steps.
Netwide Assembler (NASM) 2.14rc16 has a heap-based buffer over-read vulnerability in the expand_mmac_params function located in asm/preproc.c, affecting the handling of special characters %, $, and !.
Understanding CVE-2018-19215
This CVE involves a specific vulnerability in NASM version 2.14rc16 that can lead to a heap-based buffer over-read.
What is CVE-2018-19215?
The vulnerability in NASM version 2.14rc16 allows attackers to exploit the expand_mmac_params function, impacting the handling of certain special characters.
The Impact of CVE-2018-19215
This vulnerability could potentially be exploited by malicious actors to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (DoS) on systems running the affected NASM version.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-19215
NASM version 2.14rc16 is susceptible to a heap-based buffer over-read due to improper handling of special characters.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability is specifically present in the expand_mmac_params function within asm/preproc.c, affecting the processing of %, $, and ! characters.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Netwide Assembler (NASM)
- Vendor: N/A
- Version: 2.14rc16
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting malicious input that triggers the improper handling of special characters, leading to a heap-based buffer over-read.
Mitigation and Prevention
It is crucial to take immediate steps to address and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2018-19215.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update NASM to a patched version that addresses the heap-based buffer over-read vulnerability.
- Monitor for any unusual activities on systems running the affected NASM version.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and apply patches to mitigate known vulnerabilities.
- Implement proper input validation mechanisms to prevent buffer over-read vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
- Stay informed about security advisories and updates from NASM to promptly apply patches that address vulnerabilities like CVE-2018-19215.