CVE-2018-3851 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Hyland Perceptive Document Filters version 11.4.0.2647 for x86/x64 Windows/Linux is vulnerable to a stack-based buffer overflow in its DOC-to-HTML conversion feature, allowing attackers to execute code.

Understanding CVE-2018-3851

This CVE involves a critical vulnerability in the Hyland Perceptive Document Filters software.

What is CVE-2018-3851?

The vulnerability in version 11.4.0.2647 of Hyland Perceptive Document Filters for x86/x64 Windows/Linux allows attackers to exploit a stack-based buffer overflow using a specially crafted .doc document, leading to code execution.

The Impact of CVE-2018-3851

CVSS Base Score: 8.8 (High)
Attack Vector: Network
Attack Complexity: Low
Privileges Required: None
User Interaction: Required
Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability Impact: High

Technical Details of CVE-2018-3851

This section delves into the technical aspects of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability is an exploitable stack-based buffer overflow in the DOC-to-HTML conversion functionality of the affected software version.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Perceptive Document Filters
Vendor: Hyland Software, Inc.
Affected Version: 11.4.0.2647 for x86/x64 Windows/Linux

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can trigger the vulnerability by using a specifically crafted .doc document, enabling them to execute malicious code.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-3851 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor-supplied patches or updates promptly.
Consider implementing network security measures to mitigate the risk of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to address known vulnerabilities.
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and remediate weaknesses.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for security updates and patches from Hyland Software, Inc. to address the vulnerability.