CVE-2018-1000888 : Security Advisory and Response

PEAR Archive_Tar version 1.4.3 and earlier contain a critical vulnerability that allows for object injection and potential remote code execution. This CVE, known as CWE-502 and CWE-915, affects the Archive_Tar class and can lead to arbitrary file deletion or modification.

Understanding CVE-2018-1000888

This CVE involves a serious vulnerability in the PEAR Archive_Tar library that can be exploited by attackers to execute malicious code.

What is CVE-2018-1000888?

CVE-2018-1000888 is a vulnerability in versions 1.4.3 and earlier of PEAR Archive_Tar, specifically in the Archive_Tar class. It allows attackers to trigger unserialization and object injection, potentially leading to remote code execution.

The Impact of CVE-2018-1000888

The vulnerability in Archive_Tar can result in the arbitrary deletion of files and even remote code execution if a loaded class contains a useful gadget. This can have severe consequences for the security and integrity of affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-1000888

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the improper handling of the

$v_header['filename']

parameter in various file operations, enabling attackers to craft a malicious tar file that triggers unserialization and object injection.

Affected Systems and Versions

Versions 1.4.3 and earlier of PEAR Archive_Tar

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit the vulnerability by creating a tar file with a specific path, leading to unserialization and object injection.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-1000888 requires immediate action and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update to version 1.4.4 of Archive_Tar to mitigate the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software libraries and dependencies to prevent similar vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that all software components are up to date with the latest security patches.