CVE-2018-3984 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

The Atlantis Word Processor versions 3.0.2.3 and 3.0.2.5 contain a security vulnerability related to uninitialized length, allowing for a potential buffer overflow and code execution.

Understanding CVE-2018-3984

This CVE involves a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability in the Atlantis Word Processor versions 3.0.2.3 and 3.0.2.5, impacting the processing of Word documents.

What is CVE-2018-3984?

An uninitialized length vulnerability in the Word document-parser of Atlantis Word Processor versions 3.0.2.3 and 3.0.2.5
A specially crafted document can trigger the vulnerability by causing Atlantis to skip initializing a value representing the number of columns in a table
This leads to a buffer overflow, potentially enabling an attacker to execute code within the application's context
Victim interaction is required to open the malicious document

The Impact of CVE-2018-3984

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-2018-3984

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from uninitialized length in the Word document-parser, allowing for a buffer overflow.

Affected Systems and Versions

Atlantis Word Processor versions 3.0.2.3 and 3.0.2.5

Exploitation Mechanism

A specially crafted document manipulates an uninitialized value representing the number of columns in a table
The application uses this value as a length for a loop that writes to a heap pointer
Manipulation of this value can lead to a buffer overflow and potential code execution

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Atlantis Word Processor to a patched version
Be cautious when opening Word documents from untrusted sources

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software to the latest versions
Educate users on safe document handling practices

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by Atlantis Word Processor promptly