CVE-2018-14346 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability was identified in ec_read_file_func (unzip.c) of GNU Libextractor versions prior to 1.7.

Understanding CVE-2018-14346

What is CVE-2018-14346?

This CVE refers to a specific security flaw in GNU Libextractor that allows attackers to trigger a buffer overflow by exploiting the ec_read_file_func function in unzip.c.

The Impact of CVE-2018-14346

The vulnerability could be exploited by malicious actors to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (DoS) on systems running affected versions of GNU Libextractor.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-14346

Vulnerability Description

The stack-based buffer overflow occurs in the ec_read_file_func function of GNU Libextractor versions prior to 1.7, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: GNU Libextractor
Vendor: GNU
Versions Affected: Prior to 1.7

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting a specially designed file that, when processed by the ec_read_file_func function, overflows the stack, potentially leading to code execution.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update GNU Libextractor to version 1.7 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor vendor security advisories for patches and updates.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and libraries to the latest versions.
Implement strong input validation mechanisms to prevent buffer overflows.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by GNU or the relevant vendor to address the buffer overflow issue in GNU Libextractor.