CVE-2020-1917CWE-122

xbuf_format_converter, used as part of exif_read_data, was appending a terminating null character to the generated string, but was not using its standard…

published March 10, 2021

CVSS
—
EPSS
1%
Percentile
72.0
In the wild
Unconfirmed
What it is

⚠️ A tiny oversight in a string function can lead to chaos! The xbuf_format_converter in HHVM has a troublesome habit of appending a null character improperly, causing out-of-bounds writes. 🔥 Think of it like a chef who forgets to check if the pot is full before adding more ingredients — when the pot overflows, the kitchen gets a real mess! In this case, too much data escapes the intended bounds, leading to unpredictable outcomes. If left unaddressed, this vulnerability could allow for unexpected behavior in applications using HHVM, which might lead to crashes or data corruption. While there are no known exploits right now, it’s better to nip this in the bud before it turns into a bigger headache!

Put simply

Think of it like a chef who forgets to check if the pot is full before adding more ingredients — when the pot overflows, the kitchen gets a real mess! In this case, too much data escapes the intended bounds, leading to unpredictable outcomes. This issue arises from the xbuf_format_converter’s failure to use its standard append char function when adding a terminating null character. Instead of managing the buffer correctly, it can write outside its intended memory space, potentially overwriting critical data.

What to do

If left unaddressed, this vulnerability could allow for unexpected behavior in applications using HHVM, which might lead to crashes or data corruption. While there are no known exploits right now, it’s better to nip this in the bud before it turns into a bigger headache! Update to HHVM version 4.56.3 or later, and ensure you check for any other versions as listed to safeguard your applications. Regularly audit your dependencies for vulnerable components! You've got this! With just a simple update, you can fortify your system and keep the code clean! 🛡️

The record
Technical detail
CVSS
Not scored
CVSS v4.0
Not supplied
EPSS
0.01384 · 72.0th percentile
Weakness
CWE-122 · Heap-based Buffer Overflow
Published
2021-03-10T15:50Z
EPSS history
Timeline
  • 10 MAR 15:50Z
    xbuf_format_converter, used as part of exif_read_data, was appending a terminating null character to the generated string, but was not using its standard…
    cvelistv5