CVE-2018-3838 : Security Advisory and Response

Simple DirectMedia Layer SDL2_image-2.0.2 XCF Image Rendering Vulnerability

Understanding CVE-2018-3838

A vulnerability in the XCF image rendering feature of Simple DirectMedia Layer SDL2_image-2.0.2 could allow an attacker to access sensitive information by exploiting a specially crafted XCF image.

What is CVE-2018-3838?

The vulnerability in SDL2_image-2.0.2 allows for memory access beyond its boundaries when processing XCF images, potentially leading to information exposure.

The Impact of CVE-2018-3838

CVSS Base Score: 5.3 (Medium)
Attack Vector: Network
Confidentiality Impact: High
User Interaction: Required
Attack Complexity: High
This vulnerability could be triggered by displaying a maliciously designed image, compromising confidentiality.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-3838

Vulnerability Description

The weakness in the XCF image rendering functionality of SDL2_image-2.0.2 allows for an out-of-bounds read on the heap, resulting in information disclosure.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Simple DirectMedia
Vendor: Cisco Systems, Inc.
Affected Version: Simple DirectMedia Layer SDL2_image 2.0.2

Exploitation Mechanism

An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by displaying a specially crafted XCF image to trigger the out-of-bounds read on the heap.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update SDL2_image to a non-vulnerable version.
Avoid opening XCF images from untrusted or unknown sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and libraries to patch known vulnerabilities.
Implement network security measures to detect and prevent exploitation attempts.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by the vendor to address the XCF image rendering vulnerability in SDL2_image-2.0.2.