CVE-2020-15198 : Security Advisory and Response

In Tensorflow before version 2.3.1, the

SparseCountSparseOutput

implementation lacks validation, potentially leading to a heap buffer overflow.

Understanding CVE-2020-15198

This CVE involves a vulnerability in Tensorflow versions prior to 2.3.1 that could result in a heap buffer overflow.

What is CVE-2020-15198?

This CVE refers to a specific issue in Tensorflow where the

SparseCountSparseOutput

implementation fails to validate input arguments properly, potentially causing a heap buffer overflow.

The Impact of CVE-2020-15198

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 5.4, indicating a medium severity issue with high attack complexity and network-based attack vector. While it has low confidentiality and integrity impacts, it could lead to unauthorized access to memory buffers.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-15198

Vulnerability Description

The

SparseCountSparseOutput

implementation in Tensorflow does not adequately validate input arguments, allowing for a shape mismatch that can lead to heap buffer overflows.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Tensorflow
Vendor: Tensorflow
Versions Affected: >= 2.3.0, < 2.3.1

Exploitation Mechanism

The issue arises due to the lack of validation in the

SparseCountSparseOutput

implementation, enabling attackers to access memory outside the bounds of allocated buffers.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Tensorflow to version 2.3.1 or newer to patch the vulnerability.
Monitor for any unusual activities that could indicate exploitation of the heap buffer overflow.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and libraries to the latest versions to address known vulnerabilities.
Conduct security assessments and code reviews to identify and mitigate potential buffer overflow issues.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely application of security patches and updates provided by Tensorflow to prevent exploitation of this vulnerability.