CVE-2023-0799 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

This CVE-2023-0799 was published by GitLab on February 13, 2023, and involves an out-of-bounds read vulnerability in LibTIFF 4.4.0. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability in tiffcrop tool in tools/tiffcrop.c, potentially leading to a denial-of-service by using a maliciously crafted tiff file.

Understanding CVE-2023-0799

This section will delve deeper into the nature and impact of CVE-2023-0799.

What is CVE-2023-0799?

CVE-2023-0799 is a vulnerability in LibTIFF 4.4.0 that allows attackers to trigger an out-of-bounds read, specifically in the tiffcrop tool in tiffcrop.c. This security flaw can be exploited to cause a denial-of-service attack by manipulating a specially crafted tiff file.

The Impact of CVE-2023-0799

The impact of CVE-2023-0799 is classified with a CVSS base score of 6.8, deeming it as a medium severity vulnerability. It has a high availability impact, low integrity impact, and no confidentiality impact. The attack vector is local with low complexity and requires no privileges.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-0799

In this section, we will explore the technical aspects of CVE-2023-0799.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in LibTIFF 4.4.0 allows for an out-of-bounds read in the tiffcrop tool located in tools/tiffcrop.c at line 3701. This can be exploited by malicious actors to trigger a denial-of-service attack through the use of a specially crafted tiff file.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects the vendor "libtiff" and the product "libtiff" with versions up to and including 4.4.0.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by leveraging the out-of-bounds read flaw in the tiffcrop tool within LibTIFF 4.4.0. By providing a maliciously crafted tiff file, they can trigger the vulnerability and potentially cause a denial-of-service attack.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-0799 and enhance overall security, it is crucial to take the following mitigation and prevention measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply Patch: Users are advised to apply the fix available with commit afaabc3e if they compile libtiff from sources.
Update Software: Ensure that LibTIFF is updated to a version that includes the necessary security patches to mitigate the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regular Security Audits: Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments to identify and address potential security weaknesses.
Employee Training: Provide comprehensive cybersecurity training to employees to enhance awareness and prevent potential exploitation of vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories and updates from LibTIFF and relevant vendors to promptly apply patches and updates that address security vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-0799.