CVE-2022-2121 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Get insights into CVE-2022-2121 affecting OFFIS DCMTK. Learn about the NULL pointer dereference vulnerability, its impact, affected versions, and mitigation steps.
A detailed analysis of the OFFIS DCMTK NULL Pointer Dereference vulnerability identified under CVE-2022-2121.
Understanding CVE-2022-2121
In this section, we will delve into the specifics of the CVE-2022-2121 vulnerability affecting OFFIS DCMTK.
What is CVE-2022-2121?
The vulnerability in question involves a NULL pointer dereference issue in OFFIS DCMTK (versions prior to 3.6.7) during DICOM file processing, potentially leading to a denial-of-service scenario.
The Impact of CVE-2022-2121
The impact of this vulnerability is deemed severe with a CVSS base score of 7.5 (High). The attack complexity is high with adjacent network access and high impacts on availability, confidentiality, and integrity. No privileges are required for exploitation.
Technical Details of CVE-2022-2121
Let's explore the technical aspects associated with CVE-2022-2121.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability results from a NULL pointer dereference in OFFIS DCMTK while handling DICOM files, opening up avenues for a denial-of-service attack.
Affected Systems and Versions
All versions of OFFIS DCMTK before 3.6.7 are susceptible to this vulnerability.
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by processing specially crafted DICOM files, triggering the NULL pointer dereference flaw.
Mitigation and Prevention
To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2022-2121, certain actions need to be taken promptly.
Immediate Steps to Take
It is crucial to update the OFFIS DCMTK software to version 3.6.7 or above to address the NULL pointer dereference vulnerability. Organizations should also monitor for any suspicious activity that could indicate exploitation.
Long-Term Security Practices
Implementing secure coding practices, conducting regular security audits, and staying informed about emerging vulnerabilities can enhance long-term security posture.
Patching and Updates
Regularly applying security patches and updates provided by OFFIS for DCMTK can help in safeguarding systems from known vulnerabilities.