CVE-2020-19860 : What You Need to Know

A heap out-of-bounds read vulnerability in ldns version 1.7.1 can lead to information leakage when verifying a zone file.

Understanding CVE-2020-19860

This CVE involves a specific vulnerability in the ldns library that could be exploited by an attacker to leak information.

What is CVE-2020-19860?

CVE-2020-19860 is a heap out-of-bounds read vulnerability in ldns version 1.7.1 that occurs during the verification of a zone file. By manipulating a zone file payload, an attacker can exploit this vulnerability to leak information stored in the heap.

The Impact of CVE-2020-19860

The vulnerability poses a risk of information disclosure, potentially allowing attackers to access sensitive data through crafted zone file payloads.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-19860

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The ldns_rr_new_frm_str_internal function in ldns version 1.7.1 is susceptible to a heap out-of-bounds read vulnerability, enabling attackers to leak heap information.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Version: ldns version 1.7.1
Product: ldns
Vendor: NLnet Labs

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by constructing a malicious zone file payload to trigger the heap out-of-bounds read.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-19860 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update ldns to a patched version or apply vendor-supplied fixes.
Monitor for any unusual activities related to zone file processing.

Long-Term Security Practices

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

Patching and Updates

Check for updates and patches from NLnet Labs for ldns to address the vulnerability.