CVE-2019-11042 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

In PHP versions 7.1.x prior to 7.1.31, 7.2.x prior to 7.2.21, and 7.3.x prior to 7.3.8, a heap-buffer-overflow vulnerability exists in the PHP EXIF extension. This vulnerability could allow an attacker to read past the allocated buffer, potentially leading to information disclosure or system crashes.

Understanding CVE-2019-11042

This CVE identifies a specific vulnerability in PHP versions 7.1.x, 7.2.x, and 7.3.x that could be exploited by malicious actors.

What is CVE-2019-11042?

CVE-2019-11042 is a heap-buffer-overflow vulnerability in the PHP EXIF extension that may result in information disclosure or system crashes.

The Impact of CVE-2019-11042

The vulnerability poses a medium severity risk with a CVSS base score of 4.8. It has a high attack complexity and can be exploited over a network with low availability impact.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-11042

This section provides more in-depth technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises when the PHP EXIF extension processes EXIF information from an image, potentially allowing attackers to exceed the designated buffer limits.

Affected Systems and Versions

PHP 7.1.x versions below 7.1.31
PHP 7.2.x versions below 7.2.21
PHP 7.3.x versions below 7.3.8

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by supplying data that causes the PHP EXIF extension to read beyond the allocated buffer, leading to potential breaches or crashes.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-11042 requires immediate action and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update PHP to versions 7.1.31, 7.2.21, or 7.3.8 to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor for any unusual activities that could indicate exploitation of the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update PHP and other software to patch known vulnerabilities.
Implement network security measures to detect and prevent unauthorized access.

Patching and Updates

Apply the security updates provided by PHP Group to address the heap-buffer-overflow vulnerability.