CVE-2014-7185 in Python
Summary
by MITRE
Integer overflow in bufferobject.c in Python before 2.7.8 allows context-dependent attackers to obtain sensitive information from process memory via a large size and offset in a "buffer" function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/30/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-7185 represents a critical integer overflow flaw within Python's buffer object implementation that existed in versions prior to 2.7.8. This issue resides in the bufferobject.c file and specifically affects the handling of buffer operations where attackers can manipulate size and offset parameters to trigger unexpected behavior. The vulnerability is classified as context-dependent, meaning that successful exploitation requires specific conditions to be met within the execution environment. According to CWE-190, this represents an integer overflow condition where an attacker can cause a signed integer to wrap around to a negative value or exceed the maximum representable value, leading to unpredictable behavior.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the buffer function's handling of large size and offset parameters that are processed without adequate bounds checking. When an attacker provides carefully crafted inputs that exceed the maximum value that can be represented by the integer type used in the buffer operations, the integer overflow occurs and results in memory access violations or data corruption. The overflow can cause the buffer management code to calculate incorrect memory addresses, potentially leading to information disclosure from adjacent memory regions. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1552 for Unsecured Credentials, as it can be leveraged to extract sensitive information from process memory.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure to potentially enable more sophisticated attacks. Attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can obtain sensitive data from process memory, including cryptographic keys, passwords, or other confidential information that may be stored in adjacent memory locations. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in environments where Python applications handle sensitive data processing or where buffer operations are frequently used in security-critical applications. The integer overflow can also potentially lead to memory corruption that might be exploited to execute arbitrary code, though the primary risk is information disclosure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-7185 primarily involve upgrading to Python version 2.7.8 or later, where the integer overflow has been addressed through proper bounds checking and overflow detection mechanisms. System administrators should also implement monitoring for unusual buffer operations and parameter values that might indicate exploitation attempts. The fix implemented in Python 2.7.8 includes enhanced validation of size and offset parameters within buffer operations, preventing the integer overflow condition from occurring. Organizations should also consider implementing additional security controls such as address space layout randomization and stack canaries to reduce the overall attack surface. Regular security assessments and code reviews focusing on integer handling and buffer management should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in custom Python applications or third-party libraries that may be susceptible to similar issues.