CVE-2010-0830 in C Library
Summary
by MITRE
Integer signedness error in the elf_get_dynamic_info function in elf/dynamic-link.h in ld.so in the GNU C Library (aka glibc or libc6) 2.0.1 through 2.11.1, when the --verify option is used, allows user-assisted remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted ELF program with a negative value for a certain d_tag structure member in the ELF header.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/30/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-0830 represents a critical integer signedness error within the dynamic linking functionality of the GNU C Library. This flaw exists in the elf_get_dynamic_info function located in the elf/dynamic-link.h file of glibc versions ranging from 2.0.1 through 2.11.1. The vulnerability specifically manifests when the --verify option is employed during dynamic linking operations, creating a scenario where malicious actors can manipulate ELF program structures to achieve unauthorized code execution.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of signed integer values within the ELF dynamic information parsing mechanism. When the dynamic linker processes ELF files with the --verify flag enabled, it encounters a d_tag structure member that contains a negative value, which the code fails to properly validate or handle. This signedness error allows attackers to craft malicious ELF programs where specific d_tag values are set to negative integers, bypassing normal validation checks that would otherwise prevent such malformed data from being processed. The flaw operates at the intersection of integer overflow conditions and signedness mismanagement, creating a path for privilege escalation and arbitrary code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends across multiple system environments where glibc is utilized for dynamic linking operations, particularly affecting systems running versions within the vulnerable range. Attackers can leverage this weakness by preparing specially crafted ELF binaries that contain negative d_tag values, enabling them to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the running process. This vulnerability poses significant risk to system integrity as it can be exploited remotely through user-assisted scenarios, where a victim must load or execute a malicious ELF file. The attack vector specifically targets the dynamic linker's verification process, making it particularly dangerous in environments where dynamic linking is frequently used for application execution and system services.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-0830 primarily focus on upgrading to patched versions of glibc where the integer signedness error has been corrected. System administrators should prioritize updating their glibc installations to versions that have addressed this specific vulnerability, typically those beyond the 2.11.1 release. Additional protective measures include implementing strict ELF file validation procedures, monitoring for suspicious dynamic linking operations, and employing runtime integrity checking mechanisms. Organizations should also consider disabling the --verify option in dynamic linking contexts where it is not strictly necessary, as this reduces the attack surface for exploitation. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-191, which addresses integer underflow conditions, and can be mapped to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for execution through dynamic-linking libraries, emphasizing the need for comprehensive system hardening and patch management practices.