CVE-2016-10721 in partclone
Summary
by MITRE
partclone.restore in Partclone 0.2.87 is prone to a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability due to insufficient validation of the partclone image header. An attacker may be able to execute arbitrary code in the context of the user running the affected application.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/08/2023
The heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability in partclone.restore within Partclone version 0.2.87 represents a critical security flaw that can be exploited to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. This vulnerability specifically affects the image restoration process where the application fails to properly validate the header information of partclone image files. The insufficient input validation creates an opportunity for attackers to craft malicious image files that can trigger memory corruption during the restoration procedure. The vulnerability exists because the application does not adequately check the boundaries of data structures when parsing the image header, allowing crafted input to overwrite adjacent memory locations on the heap.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper bounds checking within the partclone.restore utility's handling of image metadata. When processing partclone image files, the application reads header information without sufficient validation of field sizes or offsets, creating a scenario where attacker-controlled data can cause buffer overflows. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of stack-based buffer overflow, though the heap-based nature indicates the overflow occurs in heap memory rather than stack memory. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it operates during the restoration phase, which typically requires elevated privileges to execute successfully. The vulnerability can be exploited through specially crafted partclone image files that contain malicious header data designed to overflow buffer boundaries and overwrite critical memory regions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can lead to complete system compromise when exploited by adversaries. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to systems running vulnerable versions of Partclone, potentially escalating privileges or executing malicious payloads. The context of exploitation is particularly concerning because partclone is commonly used for system backup and restoration operations, where users often run the application with elevated privileges. This means that successful exploitation could result in privilege escalation to root or administrator levels, providing attackers with full control over affected systems. The vulnerability affects systems that use partclone for disk cloning and backup operations, making it a significant concern for IT administrators managing enterprise environments.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate remediation through software updates to versions that address the buffer overflow issue. System administrators should prioritize patching affected installations and implementing proper input validation measures for image file processing. The recommended approach includes updating to Partclone versions that have fixed the header validation logic and implementing additional security controls such as file integrity checking and access restriction policies. Organizations should also consider implementing runtime protections such as stack canaries, address space layout randomization, and heap-based memory protection mechanisms to reduce the effectiveness of potential exploitation attempts. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect suspicious image file processing activities and unauthorized access attempts during backup restoration operations. Additionally, compliance with industry standards such as those outlined in the ATT&CK framework for defensive measures against code execution vulnerabilities should be implemented to strengthen overall security posture against similar threats.