CVE-2014-9765 in xdelta3
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the main_get_appheader function in xdelta3-main.h in xdelta3 before 3.0.9 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted input file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/07/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-9765 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the xdelta3 library version 3.0.8 and earlier. This issue resides in the main_get_appheader function located in the xdelta3-main.h source file, making it a fundamental component of the library's input processing pipeline. The vulnerability arises from inadequate input validation and bounds checking during the handling of application headers in delta compression files, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit the system through carefully crafted input files that exceed expected buffer boundaries.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when the xdelta3 library processes malformed input files that trigger the buffer overflow condition in the main_get_appheader function. This function is responsible for parsing application headers from delta compression files, and the insufficient boundary checks allow attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations with malicious data. The overflow enables arbitrary code execution because the attacker can manipulate the program flow by overwriting return addresses or function pointers within the stack memory. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121, which specifically addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and represents a classic example of how insufficient input validation can lead to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it allows remote attackers to gain unauthorized control over systems running vulnerable versions of xdelta3. Since xdelta3 is commonly used for delta compression in various applications and systems, the attack surface is broad and includes software update mechanisms, file transfer protocols, and content distribution systems. The vulnerability can be exploited through network-based attacks where malicious files are delivered to systems using xdelta3 for processing, making it particularly dangerous in environments where automated updates or file processing occurs. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which covers command and scripting interpreter execution through remote code injection vulnerabilities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-9765 primarily involve immediate patching of affected systems to upgrade to xdelta3 version 3.0.9 or later, which contains the necessary buffer overflow protections and input validation improvements. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and file validation policies to prevent processing of untrusted input files that could contain malicious payloads. Additional defensive measures include deploying intrusion detection systems that monitor for suspicious file processing patterns and implementing automated patch management processes to ensure timely remediation across all affected systems. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper memory management and input validation in security-critical libraries, emphasizing that even widely-used compression utilities can contain exploitable flaws that require regular security auditing and updates to maintain system integrity.