CVE-2018-2386 in Internet Graphics Server
Summary
by MITRE
Under certain conditions a malicious user provoking an out of bounds buffer overflow can prevent legitimate users from accessing the SAP Internet Graphics Server (IGS), 7.20, 7.20EXT, 7.45, 7.49, 7.53.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/05/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-2386 represents a critical buffer overflow condition within the SAP Internet Graphics Server component that fundamentally compromises system availability and access control mechanisms. This issue specifically affects SAP IGS versions 7.20, 7.20EXT, 7.45, 7.49, and 7.53, making it a widespread concern across multiple SAP product releases. The flaw occurs under specific conditions where a malicious actor can manipulate input data to trigger an out of bounds buffer overflow, creating a scenario where legitimate users are systematically denied access to the affected service.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and memory management within the IGS component, which fails to adequately check buffer boundaries during data processing operations. When malicious input is provided, the system attempts to write data beyond the allocated memory buffer space, potentially causing application crashes or allowing unauthorized access patterns that disrupt normal service operations. This buffer overflow condition directly relates to CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow vulnerabilities, and CWE-122, which addresses heap-based buffer overflow conditions that can occur when insufficient bounds checking is performed on memory allocations.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-2386 extends beyond simple service disruption to create significant availability concerns for organizations relying on SAP IGS functionality. Legitimate users experiencing denial of service through this vulnerability face interruptions to their business processes that depend on graphics rendering capabilities within SAP environments. The attack vector typically involves carefully crafted input that exploits the memory boundary violations, potentially allowing attackers to either crash the service entirely or manipulate the application state to prevent normal access patterns. This vulnerability particularly affects organizations using SAP NetWeaver applications where IGS serves as a critical component for displaying graphical content and reports.
Organizations must implement comprehensive mitigation strategies to address this vulnerability effectively, beginning with immediate application of SAP security notes and patches specifically designed to resolve the buffer overflow conditions. The recommended approach includes applying the relevant SAP security patches that address the memory management flaws and implement proper input validation mechanisms. Network segmentation and access control measures should be enhanced to limit exposure of vulnerable IGS components to untrusted networks. Additionally, implementing monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous input patterns or attempted exploitation attempts provides early warning capabilities. The mitigation strategy aligns with ATT&CK technique T1499.004, which addresses network denial of service attacks, and emphasizes the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches as a fundamental defense mechanism. Organizations should also consider implementing application-level firewalls or web application firewalls that can filter malicious input before it reaches the vulnerable IGS components. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify any remaining exposure points and ensure complete remediation of the buffer overflow conditions across all affected SAP IGS installations.