CVE-2015-2063 in unace
Summary
by MITRE
Integer overflow in unace 1.2b allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (crash) via a small file header in an ace archive, which triggers a buffer overflow.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/29/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-2063 represents a critical integer overflow flaw within the unace 1.2b decompression utility that processes ace archive files. This issue stems from inadequate input validation and arithmetic handling when processing file headers within ace archives, creating a scenario where maliciously crafted archive files can trigger unexpected behavior in the decompression process. The vulnerability specifically manifests when the utility encounters a small file header within an ace archive, leading to a cascading effect that ultimately results in a buffer overflow condition.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the unace utility's failure to properly validate integer values during the parsing of ace archive headers. When processing an ace file with a malformed or intentionally crafted header, the utility performs arithmetic operations that exceed the maximum representable value for the integer data type being used. This overflow condition causes subsequent buffer operations to allocate insufficient memory space, leading to memory corruption that manifests as a crash during archive extraction. The flaw operates at the intersection of improper input validation and memory management, creating a path for remote attackers to exploit the system through crafted archive content without requiring local privileges or additional attack vectors.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-2063 extends beyond simple denial of service, as it represents a potential vector for more sophisticated attacks within environments where ace archives are processed automatically. Systems that automatically extract or process ace archives without proper input sanitization become vulnerable to exploitation, particularly in automated build systems, content filtering services, or any environment where untrusted archive files are handled. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-190, which specifically addresses integer overflow conditions, and demonstrates how improper integer handling can lead to memory corruption vulnerabilities that compromise system stability and availability. Attackers can leverage this flaw to cause system crashes, potentially leading to service disruption or, in more complex scenarios, creating opportunities for further exploitation through memory corruption.
Organizations and security practitioners should implement immediate mitigations including updating to patched versions of unace or replacing the utility with more secure alternatives that properly handle integer overflow conditions. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of input validation and proper error handling in archive processing utilities, as recommended by various security frameworks including the OWASP Top Ten and NIST guidelines for secure coding practices. Additionally, implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of systems that process untrusted archive files can reduce the attack surface. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under privilege escalation and denial of service tactics, emphasizing the need for robust input validation and memory safety practices in software development lifecycle processes.