NewsSecurity Vulnerabilities

Exiv2 Exiv2::Image::printTiffStructure Function Uncontrolled Recursion Loop Vulnerability [CVE-2019-9143]

CVE Number – CVE-2019-9143

A vulnerability in the Exiv2::Image::printTiffStructure function of Exiv2 could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to cause a denial of service (DoS) condition on a targeted system.The vulnerability is due to an infinite recursion condition in the Exiv2::Image::printTiffStructurefunction, as defined in the image.cpp source code file of the affected software. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by persuading a user to open a crafted file that submits malicious input to the targeted system. A successful exploit could trigger an uncontrolled recursion loop that causes the affected application to crash, resulting in a DoS condition.Proof-of-concept (PoC) code that demonstrates an exploit of this vulnerability is publicly available. 

Exiv2 has confirmed the vulnerability; however, a software update is not available.

Analysis

  • To exploit this vulnerability, an attacker may use misleading language or instructions to persuade a user to access a crafted file that submits malicious input to the targeted system.

Safeguards

  • Administrators are advised to contact the vendor regarding future updates and releases.Administrators are advised to allow only trusted users to have network access.Administrators are advised to use an unprivileged account when browsing the Internet.Administrators are advised to monitor critical systems.Users are advised not to open email messages from suspicious or unrecognized sources. If users cannot verify that links or attachments included in email messages are safe, they are advised not to open them.Users are advised not to visit websites or follow links that have suspicious characteristics or cannot be verified as safe.

Vendor Announcements

  • Exiv2 has released a bug report at the following link: Bug #711

Fixed Software

  • At the time this alert was first published, Exiv2 had not released a software update.

Duncan

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.

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