CVE-2017-12618 : Security Advisory and Response

CVE-2017-12618 was published on October 24, 2017, and affects Apache Portable Runtime Utility (APR-util) versions prior to 1.6.0. This vulnerability allows unauthorized access to SDBM database files, potentially leading to a denial of service.

Understanding CVE-2017-12618

CVE-2017-12618 is a security vulnerability in Apache Portable Runtime Utility (APR-util) versions before 1.6.0 that could be exploited by a local attacker to crash programs or processes using certain functions.

What is CVE-2017-12618?

Versions of Apache Portable Runtime Utility (APR-util) before 1.6.0 fail to properly verify the integrity of SDBM database files, allowing unauthorized access beyond the database bounds. An attacker with local access and write permissions can exploit this to cause a denial of service.

The Impact of CVE-2017-12618

The vulnerability can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, potential crashes of programs or processes, and denial of service attacks when exploited by a malicious actor.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-12618

CVE-2017-12618 involves the following technical aspects:

Vulnerability Description

Apache Portable Runtime Utility (APR-util) 1.6.0 and prior do not validate the integrity of SDBM database files used by specific functions.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Apache Portable Runtime
Vendor: Apache Software Foundation
Versions Affected: 1.6.0 and prior

Exploitation Mechanism

An attacker with local access and write permissions to the database can exploit the vulnerability, causing crashes in programs or processes utilizing the affected functions.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2017-12618, consider the following mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Apache Portable Runtime Utility (APR-util) to version 1.6.0 or later.
Restrict access to the database to authorized users only.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and audit database access and activities.
Implement the principle of least privilege to limit user permissions.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches and updates provided by Apache Software Foundation to address the vulnerability.