CVE-2017-5601 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability in the lha_read_file_header_1() function in libarchive 3.2.2 can be exploited by malicious actors to induce a crash by executing an out-of-bounds read memory access. Learn more about the impact, technical details, and mitigation steps.

Understanding CVE-2017-5601

This CVE involves a vulnerability in the libarchive library that can lead to a crash due to an out-of-bounds read memory access.

What is CVE-2017-5601?

CVE-2017-5601 is a security vulnerability in the libarchive 3.2.2 library that allows remote attackers to trigger a crash by exploiting a flaw in the lha_read_file_header_1() function.

The Impact of CVE-2017-5601

The vulnerability can be exploited by malicious actors to cause a crash in systems using the affected version of libarchive, potentially leading to denial of service or other security issues.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-5601

This section provides more in-depth technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The error in the lha_read_file_header_1() function in libarchive 3.2.2 allows remote attackers to trigger an out-of-bounds read memory access, leading to a crash when processing a specially crafted archive.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Version: libarchive 3.2.2
Systems: Any system using the vulnerable version of libarchive

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by crafting a malicious archive that triggers the out-of-bounds read memory access when processed by the lha_read_file_header_1() function.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-5601 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update libarchive to a non-vulnerable version if available
Implement network security measures to prevent malicious archive files from reaching systems

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and libraries to patch known vulnerabilities
Conduct security assessments and audits to identify and mitigate potential risks

Patching and Updates

Check for security advisories and updates from libarchive
Apply patches or upgrades as soon as they are released to address the vulnerability