CVE-2018-20450 : What You Need to Know

CVE-2018-20450, related to the libxls library, involves a double free vulnerability in the read_MSAT function, potentially leading to a denial of service attack.

Understanding CVE-2018-20450

In the libxls 1.4.0 library, a specific vulnerability in the ole.c file allows attackers to exploit a double free issue, resulting in a denial of service, such as an application crash.

What is CVE-2018-20450?

The vulnerability in the read_MSAT function of libxls 1.4.0 can be abused by malicious actors using a specially crafted file to trigger a denial of service attack.

The Impact of CVE-2018-20450

The exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to a denial of service condition, specifically causing an application crash. It is crucial to differentiate this vulnerability from CVE-2017-2897.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-20450

The technical aspects of this CVE include:

Vulnerability Description

The read_MSAT function in ole.c within libxls 1.4.0 suffers from a double free vulnerability, enabling attackers to induce a denial of service, manifesting as an application crash.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Not applicable
Vendor: Not applicable
Affected Version: Not applicable

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by utilizing a specially crafted file to trigger the double free issue in the read_MSAT function, resulting in a denial of service attack.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2018-20450, consider the following steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches or updates provided by the library maintainers.
Avoid opening files from untrusted or unknown sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and libraries to mitigate known vulnerabilities.
Implement secure coding practices to prevent memory-related vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of patches and updates released by the libxls library maintainers to address the double free vulnerability in the read_MSAT function.