CVE-2017-12779 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

CVE-2017-12779, published on November 9, 2017, addresses a vulnerability in mkvalidator 0.5.1 that could lead to a denial of service attack. The vulnerability allows remote attackers to exploit a crafted mkv file, resulting in a null pointer dereference and application crash.

Understanding CVE-2017-12779

This CVE entry highlights a specific vulnerability in the mkvalidator software version 0.5.1.

What is CVE-2017-12779?

The vulnerability in mkvalidator 0.5.1 enables remote attackers to trigger a denial of service attack by exploiting a specially crafted mkv file. By manipulating the Node_GetData function in the node.c file, attackers can cause a null pointer dereference and crash the application.

The Impact of CVE-2017-12779

Exploiting this vulnerability can result in a denial of service condition, leading to the unavailability of the affected service or system. Remote attackers can trigger this vulnerability, potentially disrupting operations and causing system crashes.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-12779

CVE-2017-12779 involves specific technical aspects related to the vulnerability in mkvalidator 0.5.1.

Vulnerability Description

The Node_GetData function in corec/corec/node/node.c in mkvalidator 0.5.1 is susceptible to exploitation by remote attackers. By sending a maliciously crafted mkv file, attackers can exploit this vulnerability to cause a null pointer dereference and application crash.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Version: mkvalidator 0.5.1
Systems: Any system running mkvalidator 0.5.1 is vulnerable to this exploit.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability remotely by sending a specifically crafted mkv file to the target system. By manipulating the Node_GetData function, they can trigger the null pointer dereference, leading to a denial of service condition.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-12779 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches or updates provided by the software vendor to mitigate the vulnerability.
Implement network-level protections to filter out potentially malicious mkv files.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications to ensure the latest security patches are in place.
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address vulnerabilities proactively.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories related to mkvalidator and promptly apply any patches released by the vendor to address this vulnerability.