CVE-2019-14877 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2019-14877, a critical vulnerability in newlib libc library prior to version 3.3.0, leading to null pointer dereference bugs and high availability impact. Find mitigation steps and long-term security practices here.
A vulnerability in the newlib libc library prior to version 3.3.0 can lead to a null pointer dereference bug, potentially impacting system availability.
Understanding CVE-2019-14877
This CVE involves a specific function in the newlib libc library that lacks proper memory allocation validation, leading to a critical vulnerability.
What is CVE-2019-14877?
The __mdiff function in newlib libc, versions prior to 3.3.0, relies on Balloc for large integer allocation without verifying the success of the allocation. This oversight can trigger a null pointer dereference bug when accessing certain memory locations.
The Impact of CVE-2019-14877
The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 6.5, indicating a medium severity issue with high availability impact due to potential null pointer dereference bugs.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-14877
This section provides in-depth technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The __mdiff function in newlib libc, versions prior to 3.3.0, lacks validation for successful memory allocation, leading to a null pointer dereference bug.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: newlib
- Vendor: Red Hat
- Affected Versions: All newlib versions prior to 3.3.0
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by causing a failure in memory allocation when accessing _wds and _sign, resulting in a null pointer dereference bug.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2019-14877 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update newlib to version 3.3.0 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Monitor security advisories from Red Hat for patches and updates.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Implement secure coding practices to prevent similar memory-related vulnerabilities.
- Conduct regular security assessments and code reviews to identify and address potential issues.
Patching and Updates
- Apply patches provided by Red Hat promptly to address the vulnerability and enhance system security.