CVE-2018-7577 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

Google Snappy library 1.1.4 used in Google TensorFlow before version 1.7.1 has a vulnerability that could lead to memory-related issues.

Understanding CVE-2018-7577

In May 2018, CVE-2018-7577 was published, highlighting a potential crash or memory reading problem in Google TensorFlow due to a vulnerability in the Google Snappy library.

What is CVE-2018-7577?

The vulnerability in the Google Snappy library version 1.1.4, as utilized in Google TensorFlow before version 1.7.1, could result in a crash or reading from different sections of the process memory. This issue arises from overlapping parameters in the memcpy function.

The Impact of CVE-2018-7577

The vulnerability could allow attackers to crash the application or potentially read sensitive information from the process memory, leading to security breaches and data leaks.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-7577

Google Snappy library's vulnerability in TensorFlow requires a closer look at its technical aspects.

Vulnerability Description

The issue stems from overlapping parameters in the memcpy function within the Google Snappy library version 1.1.4, impacting Google TensorFlow versions prior to 1.7.1.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Library: Google Snappy 1.1.4
Affected Software: Google TensorFlow versions before 1.7.1

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by manipulating parameters in the memcpy function, causing crashes or unauthorized memory reads.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-7577 requires immediate actions and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Google TensorFlow to version 1.7.1 or newer to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor system logs for any unusual activities that could indicate exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and libraries to patch known vulnerabilities.
Implement secure coding practices to prevent memory-related vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by Google for TensorFlow to address the vulnerability.