CVE-2023-0996 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This article provides insights into CVE-2023-0996, its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

Understanding CVE-2023-0996

CVE-2023-0996 refers to a vulnerability in the strided image data parsing code in the emscripten wrapper for libheif. This vulnerability could be exploited by an attacker through a crafted image file to cause a buffer overflow in linear memory during a memcpy call.

What is CVE-2023-0996?

The vulnerability in CVE-2023-0996 lies in the strided image data parsing code within the emscripten wrapper for libheif. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability by using a specially crafted image file to trigger a buffer overflow in linear memory during a memcpy call.

The Impact of CVE-2023-0996

The impact of CVE-2023-0996 is categorized under CAPEC-100 Overflow Buffers. This type of attack can have serious implications on the security and stability of the affected system.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-0996

This section delves into the vulnerability description, affected systems, versions, and the exploitation mechanism of CVE-2023-0996.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in CVE-2023-0996 arises from the strided image data parsing code in the emscripten wrapper for libheif, leading to a buffer overflow in linear memory during a memcpy call.

Affected Systems and Versions

The specific product affected by CVE-2023-0996 is "libheif" with the vendor "Struktur." The version 1.14.2 of libheif is impacted by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit CVE-2023-0996, an attacker can create a malicious image file that triggers the buffer overflow in the linear memory during a memcpy call, thereby compromising the system's security.

Mitigation and Prevention

In response to CVE-2023-0996, it is crucial to take immediate steps, adopt long-term security practices, and apply necessary patches and updates to mitigate the risk effectively.

Immediate Steps to Take

Patch affected systems and applications promptly to address the vulnerability.
Implement proper input validation to prevent buffer overflows.
Monitor and restrict network access to sensitive systems.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications to ensure all security patches are applied.
Conduct routine security assessments and penetration testing to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities.
Educate users and stakeholders on best security practices and awareness.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that the affected product, in this case, libheif version 1.14.2, is updated with the latest security patches provided by the vendor. Regularly check for updates and apply them promptly to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities.