CVE-2020-18773 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2020-18773, a vulnerability in Exiv2 0.27.99.0 that allows attackers to cause a denial of service (DOS) via a crafted tif file. Find out how to mitigate the risks and prevent exploitation.
Exiv2 0.27.99.0 allows attackers to cause a denial of service (DOS) via a crafted tif file.
Understanding CVE-2020-18773
An invalid memory access in the decode function in iptc.cpp of Exiv2 0.27.99.0 leads to a vulnerability that can be exploited for a denial of service attack.
What is CVE-2020-18773?
CVE-2020-18773 is a vulnerability in Exiv2 0.27.99.0 that allows attackers to trigger a denial of service (DOS) by exploiting an invalid memory access in the decode function of iptc.cpp.
The Impact of CVE-2020-18773
This vulnerability can be exploited by attackers to disrupt the normal operation of systems that use Exiv2 0.27.99.0, potentially leading to service outages and system unavailability.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-18773
Exiv2 0.27.99.0 is susceptible to a denial of service attack due to an invalid memory access in the decode function of iptc.cpp.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in Exiv2 0.27.99.0 arises from an invalid memory access in the decode function of iptc.cpp, which can be abused by attackers to launch a denial of service attack.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Vendor: n/a
- Product: n/a
- Versions Affected: 0.27.99.0
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by providing a crafted tif file to trigger the invalid memory access in the decode function of Exiv2 0.27.99.0.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate action is crucial to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2020-18773.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply security patches provided by the vendor promptly.
- Implement file input validation to prevent the upload of malicious tif files.
- Monitor system logs for any unusual activity that may indicate an exploitation attempt.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch software to address known vulnerabilities.
- Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and remediate weaknesses.
- Educate users and administrators about safe file handling practices to prevent exploitation.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that Exiv2 0.27.99.0 is updated to a patched version that addresses the vulnerability to prevent potential denial of service attacks.