CVE-2005-4808 in Binutils
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in reset_vars in config/tc-crx.c in the GNU as (gas) assembler in Free Software Foundation GNU Binutils before 20050714 allows user-assisted attackers to have an unknown impact via a crafted .s file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/30/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-4808 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the GNU as (gas) assembler component of the Free Software Foundation GNU Binutils suite. This security weakness resides in the reset_vars function located within the config/tc-crx.c file, which serves as a crucial element in the assembly processing pipeline for CRX architecture targets. The flaw manifests when the assembler encounters specially crafted assembly source files that trigger improper memory handling during variable reset operations, creating conditions where attacker-controlled input can overwrite adjacent memory regions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking within the reset_vars function, which processes configuration variables during assembly operations. When the assembler parses a malicious .s file containing crafted directives or data structures, the buffer overflow occurs during the variable reinitialization phase where insufficient input validation allows attackers to provide oversized data payloads that exceed the allocated buffer space. This particular flaw falls under the CWE-121 CWE category, which encompasses classic stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and represents a significant concern for software supply chain security since it affects the foundational toolchain components used by developers worldwide.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple local exploitation scenarios, as it provides attackers with the potential to execute arbitrary code within the context of the assembler process. This capability enables a range of malicious activities including but not limited to code injection attacks, privilege escalation, and system compromise. The user-assisted nature of this vulnerability means that attackers do not require direct system access to exploit the flaw, as simply opening or processing a maliciously crafted assembly file can trigger the buffer overflow condition. This characteristic makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where developers frequently process untrusted assembly code or where automated build systems might encounter malicious input without proper sanitization.
From a defensive perspective, the primary mitigation strategy involves upgrading to GNU Binutils version 20050714 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the buffer overflow condition in the reset_vars function. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation procedures for all assembly source files processed by their build systems, particularly in environments where untrusted code might be encountered. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date toolchain components and implementing proper security controls around compiler and assembler usage. Additionally, this flaw aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.008, which covers the use of assembly languages for system execution, and highlights the need for secure coding practices in development toolchains that directly impact the integrity of compiled software products.