CVE-2018-20573 : Security Advisory and Response

A crafted YAML file can result in a denial of service (stack consumption and application crash) in yaml-cpp (aka LibYaml-C++) 0.6.2 due to the vulnerability in the Scanner::EnsureTokensInQueue function.

Understanding CVE-2018-20573

This CVE involves a vulnerability in yaml-cpp (LibYaml-C++) 0.6.2 that allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service through a crafted YAML file.

What is CVE-2018-20573?

The Scanner::EnsureTokensInQueue function in yaml-cpp (LibYaml-C++) 0.6.2 is susceptible to a denial of service attack, leading to stack consumption and application crashes when processing a maliciously crafted YAML file.

The Impact of CVE-2018-20573

The vulnerability can be exploited remotely by attackers to disrupt the normal operation of systems running the affected version of yaml-cpp, potentially leading to service interruptions and crashes.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-20573

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the Scanner::EnsureTokensInQueue function of yaml-cpp (LibYaml-C++) 0.6.2 allows attackers to trigger a denial of service condition by exploiting a specially crafted YAML file.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Version: yaml-cpp (LibYaml-C++) 0.6.2
Systems running this version are vulnerable to the denial of service attack.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit the vulnerability by providing a maliciously crafted YAML file to trigger the denial of service condition in the Scanner::EnsureTokensInQueue function.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-20573 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update yaml-cpp (LibYaml-C++) to a non-vulnerable version if available.
Implement proper input validation to prevent the processing of malicious YAML files.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and update software components to address known vulnerabilities.
Conduct security assessments and audits to identify and mitigate potential risks in the system.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security patches and updates released by yaml-cpp (LibYaml-C++) to address the vulnerability.