CVE-2018-6871 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

LibreOffice versions prior to 5.4.5 and 6.x prior to 6.0.1 are vulnerable to remote attacks that can lead to unauthorized access to arbitrary files.

Understanding CVE-2018-6871

This CVE entry highlights a security vulnerability in LibreOffice that could be exploited by remote attackers.

What is CVE-2018-6871?

CVE-2018-6871 is a vulnerability in LibreOffice versions before 5.4.5 and 6.x before 6.0.1 that allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files by using specific functions in a document.

The Impact of CVE-2018-6871

The vulnerability can be exploited by malicious actors to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information stored in files.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-6871

This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

Remote attackers can exploit LibreOffice versions prior to 5.4.5 and 6.x prior to 6.0.1 by using =WEBSERVICE calls in a document that utilizes the COM.MICROSOFT.WEBSERVICE function to gain unauthorized access to read arbitrary files.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Versions: LibreOffice versions before 5.4.5 and 6.x before 6.0.1

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can leverage specific functions in a document to execute =WEBSERVICE calls and access arbitrary files.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-6871 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update LibreOffice to versions 5.4.5 or 6.0.1 to mitigate the vulnerability.
Avoid opening suspicious documents or files from untrusted sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and apply security patches promptly.
Educate users about safe document handling practices to prevent exploitation.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories and apply patches released by LibreOffice to address vulnerabilities.