CVE-2018-20815

In QEMU 3.1.0, load_device_tree in device_tree.c calls the deprecated load_image function, which has a buffer overflow risk

published May 31, 2019

CVSS
—
EPSS
4%
Percentile
91.3
In the wild
Unconfirmed
What it is

⚠️ A precarious function call is hiding in QEMU 3.1.0! When the load_device_tree function reaches into the deprecated load_image, it risks a buffer overflow – oh no! 🔥 Think of it like a pipe that’s too narrow for the water flowing through it. If you keep pouring in more than it can handle, water bursts everywhere, creating quite a mess! In this case, excess data could spill over, leading to unexpected behavior. This buffer overflow can lead to critical issues, potentially allowing an attacker to manipulate resources or crash the system. While it's not currently known to be exploited, the risk is there, waiting for the right moment. It’s like leaving a door unlocked — you might be okay for now, but it’s a gamble!

Put simply

Think of it like a pipe that’s too narrow for the water flowing through it. If you keep pouring in more than it can handle, water bursts everywhere, creating quite a mess! In this case, excess data could spill over, leading to unexpected behavior. In QEMU 3.1.0, the load_device_tree function mistakenly calls the deprecated load_image function, which can lead to a buffer overflow due to unchecked input sizes.

What to do

This buffer overflow can lead to critical issues, potentially allowing an attacker to manipulate resources or crash the system. While it's not currently known to be exploited, the risk is there, waiting for the right moment. It’s like leaving a door unlocked — you might be okay for now, but it’s a gamble! To remedy this, upgrade to a secure version of QEMU that addresses this issue. Regularly audit your code for deprecated functions and replace them with secure alternatives. Keeping your dependencies up to date is key! You've got this! Stay proactive, and you'll keep your systems safe and sound. 🛡️

The record
Technical detail
CVSS
Not scored
CVSS v4.0
Not supplied
EPSS
0.04428 · 91.3th percentile
Published
2019-05-31T21:40Z
EPSS history
Timeline
  • 31 MAY 21:40Z
    In QEMU 3.1.0, load_device_tree in device_tree.c calls the deprecated load_image function, which has a buffer overflow risk
    cvelistv5