CVE-2018-20542 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2018-20542, a heap-based buffer-overflow vulnerability in LIBXSMM 1.10. Understand the impact, affected systems, exploitation, and mitigation steps.
In LIBXSMM 1.10, a heap-based buffer-overflow vulnerability was discovered in generator_spgemm_csc_reader.c. This vulnerability, identified as CVE-2018-20542, is distinct from CVE-2018-20541, occurring in a different code section and memory address.
Understanding CVE-2018-20542
This CVE entry pertains to a specific heap-based buffer-overflow issue in LIBXSMM 1.10.
What is CVE-2018-20542?
The vulnerability CVE-2018-20542 involves a heap-based buffer-overflow in generator_spgemm_csc_reader.c within the function libxsmm_sparse_csc_reader in LIBXSMM 1.10. It is separate from CVE-2018-20541, as it occurs in a different part of the source code and triggers at a different memory address.
The Impact of CVE-2018-20542
The vulnerability could potentially allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code or crash the application, leading to a denial of service (DoS) condition.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-20542
This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE-2018-20542 vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability is a heap-based buffer-overflow in generator_spgemm_csc_reader.c within the function libxsmm_sparse_csc_reader in LIBXSMM 1.10.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Not applicable
- Vendor: Not applicable
- Version: Not applicable
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by crafting a malicious input that triggers the buffer-overflow condition, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2018-20542, follow these mitigation strategies:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply security patches provided by the vendor promptly.
- Monitor vendor communications for updates and advisories regarding the vulnerability.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Implement secure coding practices to prevent buffer-overflow vulnerabilities.
- Conduct regular security assessments and code reviews to identify and address potential vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
- Regularly update software and libraries to the latest versions that contain security patches.