CVE-2019-19796 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A buffer overflow vulnerability has been discovered in Yabasic version 2.86.2, specifically in the myformat function within the function.c file. This vulnerability can be exploited by using a carefully-crafted BASIC source file.

Understanding CVE-2019-19796

This CVE identifies a heap-based buffer overflow in Yabasic version 2.86.2.

What is CVE-2019-19796?

The vulnerability is a heap-based buffer overflow in the myformat function of Yabasic version 2.86.2, triggered by a specially crafted BASIC source file.

The Impact of CVE-2019-19796

The vulnerability could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service by crashing the application.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-19796

Yabasic 2.86.2 is affected by a heap-based buffer overflow in the myformat function within the function.c file.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises due to improper handling of input in the myformat function, leading to a buffer overflow.

Affected Systems and Versions

Yabasic version 2.86.2

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by crafting a malicious BASIC source file to trigger the buffer overflow.

Mitigation and Prevention

It is crucial to take immediate steps to address and prevent exploitation of this vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Yabasic to a patched version that addresses the buffer overflow issue.
Avoid opening untrusted or suspicious BASIC source files.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software to the latest versions to patch known vulnerabilities.
Implement code reviews and security testing to identify and mitigate similar issues.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that all systems running Yabasic are updated to a version that includes a fix for the buffer overflow vulnerability.