CVE-2018-3847 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

The CFITSIO library version 3.42 contains buffer overflow vulnerabilities that can be exploited by parsing specially crafted images, potentially leading to code execution.

Understanding CVE-2018-3847

What is CVE-2018-3847?

The CVE-2018-3847 vulnerability is present in the CFITSIO library version 3.42, allowing attackers to trigger buffer overflows by manipulating image parsing.

The Impact of CVE-2018-3847

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 8.8 (High) and can result in stack-based buffer overflows, enabling attackers to overwrite data and potentially execute malicious code.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-3847

Vulnerability Description

Multiple buffer overflow vulnerabilities exist in the image parsing functionality of CFITSIO 3.42, allowing attackers to trigger stack-based buffer overflows by using specially crafted images.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: CFITSIO
Vendor: NASA
Version: 3.42

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit the vulnerability by delivering a FIT image, triggering a stack-based buffer overflow that can lead to arbitrary code execution.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update CFITSIO to a patched version that addresses the buffer overflow vulnerabilities.
Implement network security measures to prevent unauthorized access to vulnerable systems.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and update software libraries to mitigate potential vulnerabilities.
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address any existing weaknesses.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by the vendor to fix the buffer overflow vulnerabilities in CFITSIO.