CVE-2019-9854 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2019-9854 affecting LibreOffice versions prior to 6.2.7 and 6.3.1. Find mitigation steps and prevention measures for this security vulnerability.
LibreOffice has a vulnerability that allows the execution of pre-installed macros from arbitrary locations on the file system. This flaw, identified as CVE-2019-9854, impacts versions prior to 6.2.7 for LibreOffice 6.2 and versions prior to 6.3.1 for LibreOffice 6.3.
Understanding CVE-2019-9854
This CVE involves an unsafe URL assembly flaw in the allowed script location check in LibreOffice.
What is CVE-2019-9854?
LibreOffice's feature to execute pre-installed macros during script events could be exploited to execute scripts from unauthorized directories due to a flaw in URL assembly.
The Impact of CVE-2019-9854
The vulnerability allows malicious actors to bypass the protection mechanism and execute scripts from arbitrary locations on the file system, potentially leading to unauthorized access and data manipulation.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-9854
This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The flaw in LibreOffice's URL assembly allows attackers to bypass the protection mechanism and execute scripts from unauthorized locations on the file system.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: LibreOffice
- Vendor: Document Foundation
- Versions Affected:
- LibreOffice 6.2 versions prior to 6.2.7
- LibreOffice 6.3 versions prior to 6.3.1
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by manipulating the URL assembly process to execute scripts from unauthorized directories.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protect your systems from CVE-2019-9854 with the following steps:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update LibreOffice to version 6.2.7 or 6.3.1, depending on the installed version.
- Avoid executing macros from untrusted sources.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software to the latest versions to patch known vulnerabilities.
- Implement strict access controls to prevent unauthorized script execution.
Patching and Updates
Ensure timely installation of security updates and patches provided by LibreOffice to address CVE-2019-9854.