CVE-2018-11243 : Security Advisory and Response

UPX 3.95's PackLinuxElf64::unpack function in p_lx_elf.cpp is vulnerable to remote attacks, potentially leading to denial of service and hindering malware scanning.

Understanding CVE-2018-11243

This CVE involves a vulnerability in UPX 3.95 that can be exploited remotely, impacting the functionality of malware scanners and causing denial of service.

What is CVE-2018-11243?

The function PackLinuxElf64::unpack in the file p_lx_elf.cpp from UPX 3.95 has a vulnerability that can be exploited by remote attackers. This vulnerability can lead to a denial of service by triggering a double free of resources. Additionally, it can also potentially restrict the effectiveness of a malware scanner on the entire original data. There may be other unspecified impacts as well through the use of a specially crafted file.

The Impact of CVE-2018-11243

Remote attackers can exploit the vulnerability to trigger a double free of resources, leading to denial of service.
The effectiveness of malware scanners on the original data may be limited.
Other unspecified impacts can occur through specially crafted files.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-11243

UPX 3.95's vulnerability in the PackLinuxElf64::unpack function can have severe consequences.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (double free), limit the ability of a malware scanner to operate on the entire original data, or possibly have unspecified other impacts via a crafted file.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: N/A
Vendor: N/A
Version: N/A

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited remotely, potentially causing a denial of service and affecting malware scanning capabilities.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-11243 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply patches and updates provided by the vendor.
Monitor for any unusual activities or resource exhaustion that could indicate an ongoing attack.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to prevent vulnerabilities.
Implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure to potential threats.
Educate users on safe browsing habits and the importance of not opening suspicious files.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that the latest patches and updates from UPX are applied to mitigate the vulnerability effectively.