CVE-2017-17498 : Security Advisory and Response
Discover the impact of CVE-2017-17498, a vulnerability in GraphicsMagick version 1.3.26 allowing remote attackers to cause a denial of service attack. Learn about affected systems, exploitation mechanism, and mitigation steps.
GraphicsMagick version 1.3.26 is affected by a vulnerability in the WritePNMImage function, leading to a denial of service attack due to a heap-based buffer overflow. This CVE was published on December 11, 2017.
Understanding CVE-2017-17498
This CVE involves a vulnerability in GraphicsMagick version 1.3.26 that can be exploited by remote attackers to cause a denial of service attack.
What is CVE-2017-17498?
The vulnerability in the WritePNMImage function of GraphicsMagick version 1.3.26 allows remote attackers to trigger a denial of service attack due to a heap-based buffer overflow in the MagickBitStreamMSBWrite function within bit_stream.c. There is also a possibility of other unspecified impacts if exploited by a crafted file.
The Impact of CVE-2017-17498
The impact of this vulnerability is the crashing of the application, resulting in a denial of service attack. Additionally, there may be other unspecified impacts if the vulnerability is exploited.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-17498
GraphicsMagick version 1.3.26 is susceptible to a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability in the WritePNMImage function.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service attack or potentially have other unspecified impacts by exploiting a crafted file.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: GraphicsMagick
- Vendor: N/A
- Version: 1.3.26
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited remotely by triggering a heap-based buffer overflow in the MagickBitStreamMSBWrite function within bit_stream.c.
Mitigation and Prevention
It is crucial to take immediate steps to mitigate the impact of CVE-2017-17498 and implement long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply security updates provided by the vendor promptly.
- Consider implementing network security measures to prevent remote exploitation.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch software to address known vulnerabilities.
- Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and remediate weaknesses.
Patching and Updates
- Refer to vendor advisories and security updates to patch the vulnerability in GraphicsMagick version 1.3.26.