CVE-2020-16587 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

A heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability exists in Academy Software Foundation OpenEXR 2.3.0 that can lead to a denial of service via a crafted EXR file.

Understanding CVE-2020-16587

This CVE involves a heap-based buffer overflow issue in OpenEXR 2.3.0, potentially resulting in a denial of service attack.

What is CVE-2020-16587?

The vulnerability is located in chunkOffsetReconstruction in ImfMultiPartInputFile.cpp within OpenEXR 2.3.0, allowing attackers to exploit it through a specially crafted EXR file.

The Impact of CVE-2020-16587

If successfully exploited, this vulnerability can cause a denial of service, disrupting the normal operation of the affected system.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-16587

OpenEXR 2.3.0 is susceptible to a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The issue lies in chunkOffsetReconstruction in ImfMultiPartInputFile.cpp, enabling attackers to trigger a denial of service attack by utilizing a malicious EXR file.

Affected Systems and Versions

Vendor: n/a
Product: n/a
Versions: All versions are affected.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting a malicious EXR file to trigger the heap-based buffer overflow, leading to a denial of service.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2020-16587, follow these mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the latest security updates provided by the vendor.
Avoid opening EXR files from untrusted or unknown sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications to patch known vulnerabilities.
Implement network security measures to detect and prevent buffer overflow attacks.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that OpenEXR is updated to a secure version that addresses the heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability.