CVE-2018-0510 in kkcald
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in epg search result viewer (kkcald) 0.7.19 and earlier allows remote attackers to perform unintended operations or execute DoS (denial of service) attacks via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/31/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-0510 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the epg search result viewer component known as kkcald version 0.7.19 and earlier. This issue resides in the handling of search results within the electronic program guide functionality of certain digital television systems, specifically affecting devices that utilize the kkcald application for processing and displaying electronic program guide data. The buffer overflow vulnerability occurs when the application processes search queries or result sets without proper bounds checking, creating opportunities for malicious input manipulation.
The technical nature of this buffer overflow stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the kkcald application's code structure. When processing search results from electronic program guide data, the application fails to properly verify the size of incoming data buffers before writing to them. This allows attackers to craft specially formatted search queries or result data that exceeds the allocated buffer space, causing memory corruption that can lead to arbitrary code execution or system instability. The vulnerability operates at the application level where user inputs are processed, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered through legitimate search functionality.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates significant risks for digital television systems and set-top boxes that rely on the kkcald application for electronic program guide functionality. Remote attackers can exploit this flaw to execute denial of service attacks that render the affected devices unusable, effectively disrupting television services for end users. The potential for arbitrary code execution means that attackers could gain unauthorized control over the affected systems, potentially leading to complete system compromise. This vulnerability particularly affects consumer electronics and broadcast systems where the kkcald component is integrated, creating widespread exposure across multiple device manufacturers and service providers.
The security implications of CVE-2018-0510 align with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and can be categorized under ATT&CK technique T1499 for denial of service attacks. The vulnerability demonstrates poor input validation practices that violate secure coding principles and can be exploited through various attack vectors including crafted search queries, malformed result data, or manipulated electronic program guide feeds. Mitigation strategies should include immediate software updates and patches from vendors, implementation of input sanitization measures, and network segmentation to limit exposure. Organizations should also consider monitoring for suspicious search activity patterns and implementing intrusion detection systems to identify potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the importance of proper bounds checking and input validation in embedded systems and consumer electronics where security controls may be less stringent than in enterprise environments.