CVE-2014-9112 in cpio
Summary
by MITRE
Heap-based buffer overflow in the process_copy_in function in GNU Cpio 2.11 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service via a large block value in a cpio archive.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/27/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-9112 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow within GNU Cpio version 2.11, specifically within the process_copy_in function. This flaw arises from insufficient input validation when processing cpio archive files, creating a condition where remote attackers can manipulate archive contents to trigger memory corruption. The vulnerability manifests when a maliciously crafted cpio archive contains an excessively large block value that exceeds the allocated buffer boundaries during file processing. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-122, which specifically addresses heap-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient boundary checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent heap memory regions.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs during the normal operation of GNU Cpio when it processes cpio archives containing malformed block size values. The process_copy_in function fails to properly validate the block size parameter before attempting to allocate memory or copy data into heap-allocated buffers. When the attacker supplies a large block value that exceeds the expected range, the function attempts to allocate insufficient memory or copies data beyond the allocated buffer boundaries, resulting in heap corruption. This memory corruption can lead to arbitrary code execution or denial of service conditions, depending on the specific memory layout and exploitation circumstances. The vulnerability demonstrates characteristics consistent with CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds writes that can occur when programs write data past the boundaries of allocated buffers.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to systems that process untrusted cpio archives, particularly those used in automated build systems, package management workflows, or file transfer operations. The remote attack vector means that adversaries can exploit this vulnerability without requiring local access, making it particularly dangerous in networked environments where cpio archives might be processed automatically. The denial of service impact can disrupt legitimate file processing operations, while the potential for arbitrary code execution could allow attackers to gain control over affected systems. This vulnerability affects a wide range of systems that rely on GNU Cpio for archive processing, including Linux distributions, backup systems, and software deployment frameworks.
The mitigation strategy for CVE-2014-9112 involves immediate patching of GNU Cpio installations to version 2.12 or later, which contains the necessary fixes to properly validate block size values. Organizations should also implement strict input validation for all cpio archives processed by automated systems, particularly those originating from untrusted sources. Network segmentation and access controls should be enforced to limit exposure of systems that process cpio archives. Additionally, security monitoring should be implemented to detect suspicious archive processing activities that might indicate exploitation attempts. The remediation aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, which involves the exploitation of software vulnerabilities through buffer overflow conditions, and should be addressed as part of comprehensive vulnerability management programs. System administrators should also consider implementing sandboxing mechanisms for archive processing to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts.