CVE-2018-20541 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2018-20541, a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability in libxsmm_sparse_csc_reader in LIBXSMM 1.10. Find out the impact, affected systems, exploitation mechanism, and mitigation steps.
An occurrence of a heap-based buffer overflow has been identified in libxsmm_sparse_csc_reader in generator_spgemm_csc_reader.c within the LIBXSMM 1.10 version. This vulnerability is distinct from CVE-2018-20542.
Understanding CVE-2018-20541
This CVE involves a heap-based buffer overflow in a specific section of the source code of LIBXSMM 1.10.
What is CVE-2018-20541?
The vulnerability is a heap-based buffer overflow in libxsmm_sparse_csc_reader at generator_spgemm_csc_reader.c in LIBXSMM 1.10, different from CVE-2018-20542.
The Impact of CVE-2018-20541
The vulnerability could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service by crashing the application.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-20541
This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability is a heap-based buffer overflow in a specific function within the LIBXSMM 1.10 source code.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Not applicable
- Vendor: Not applicable
- Version: LIBXSMM 1.10
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by crafting a malicious input that triggers the buffer overflow.
Mitigation and Prevention
Steps to address and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2018-20541.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply security patches provided by the vendor.
- Monitor for any unusual behavior on the system.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and libraries to the latest versions.
- Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that the LIBXSMM library is updated to a version that includes a fix for the heap-based buffer overflow.