CVE-2018-16140 : What You Need to Know

Fig2dev 3.2.7a's get_line() function in read.c is vulnerable to a buffer underwrite flaw, allowing attackers to manipulate data using malicious .fig files.

Understanding CVE-2018-16140

This CVE entry describes a specific vulnerability in the fig2dev software version 3.2.7a.

What is CVE-2018-16140?

The vulnerability lies in the get_line() function within read.c of fig2dev 3.2.7a, enabling attackers to exploit a buffer underwrite issue by crafting a specially designed .fig file to write data before the buffer's start.

The Impact of CVE-2018-16140

The vulnerability could be leveraged by malicious actors to execute arbitrary code or crash the application, potentially leading to a denial of service (DoS) condition.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-16140

This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE entry.

Vulnerability Description

The buffer underwrite vulnerability in the get_line() function of fig2dev 3.2.7a allows attackers to write data before the buffer's beginning through a manipulated .fig file.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Not applicable
Vendor: Not applicable
Versions: All instances of fig2dev 3.2.7a are affected.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by creating a specially crafted .fig file to manipulate data before the buffer's actual start.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-16140 involves taking immediate and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor-supplied patches promptly.
Avoid opening untrusted .fig files.
Monitor vendor advisories for updates.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and apply security patches.
Implement file input validation to prevent malicious file execution.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security updates and patches provided by the software vendor to mitigate the vulnerability effectively.