PatchTheCVECVE-2017-7231: pngdefry through 2017-03-22 is prone to a heap-based buffer-overflow vulnerability because it fails to properl
CVE-2017-7231 is a high-severity flaw (CVSS 7.8) affecting pngdefry. Below: why it ranks where it does, which versions are affected, what to do, and the exact commands.
pngdefry through 2017-03-22 is prone to a heap-based buffer-overflow vulnerability because it fails to properly process a specially crafted png file. This issue affects the 'process()' function of the 'pngdefry.c' source file.
Why this priority
- High severity
- Public exploit reference
A fixed release or distro patch exists.
Risk facts
| CVSS score | 7.8 (High) |
| Attack vector | Local |
| Attack complexity | Low |
| Privileges needed | None |
| User interaction | Required |
| EPSS exploit chance | 1.2% (top 33%) |
| CISA exploited list | No |
| Weakness | CWE-119 |
| Published | 2017-03-22 |
| Last modified | 2026-06-17 |
Last updated 2026-06-17 · Sources: CVE Program, NVD, CISA KEV, EPSS and vendor advisories · How we score
Am I affected?
Timeline
- Published CVE record published
- Updated Record last modified
Scores and fixes here are computed automatically from those and other public sources. Confirm with the vendor advisory before changing production systems.
Quick answers
How do I fix CVE-2017-7231?
pngdefry: upgrade to newer than 2017-03-22. Exact commands for each OS are on this page.
Is CVE-2017-7231 being exploited?
CVE-2017-7231 is not on the CISA Known Exploited Vulnerabilities list at the time of the last update. Check again, as this can change.
What does CVE-2017-7231 affect?
CVE-2017-7231 affects pngdefry. Severity is high (CVSS 7.8). pngdefry through 2017-03-22 is prone to a heap-based buffer-overflow vulnerability because it fails to properly process a specially crafted png file. This issue affects the 'process()' function of the 'pngdefry.c' source file.
How urgent is CVE-2017-7231?
Priority 49/100. High severity; Public exploit reference