GNOME GLib g_markup_parse_context_end_parse() NULL Pointer Dereference Vulnerability [CVE-2018-16428]
CVE Number – CVE-2018-16428
A vulnerability in the g_markup_parse_context_end_parse() function of GNOME GLib could allow a local attacker to cause a denial of service (DoS) condition on a targeted system.
The vulnerability is due to improper parsing of user-supplied input by the g_markup_parse_context_end_parse() function, as defined in the gmarkup.c source code file of the affected software. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by executing an application or file that submits malicious input to the targeted system. A successful exploit could trigger a NULL pointer dereference condition, resulting in a DoS condition.
Proof-of-concept (PoC) code that demonstrates an exploit of this vulnerability is publicly available.
GNOME confirmed the vulnerability and released software updates.
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To exploit this vulnerability, the attacker must have user-level access to the targeted system. This access requirement may reduce the likelihood of a successful exploit.
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Administrators are advised to apply the appropriate updates.
Administrators are advised to allow only trusted users to access local systems.
Administrators are advised to allow only privileged users to access administration or management systems.
Administrators are advised to monitor critical systems.
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GNOME released a bug report at the following link: bug 795147
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GNOME released software updates at the following link: gmarkup: fix crash in error handling path for closing elements
Duncan is a technology professional with over 20 years experience of working in various IT roles. He has a interest in cyber security, and has a wide range of other skills in radio, electronics and telecommunications.