CVE-2016-1541 in libarchive
Summary
by MITRE
Heap-based buffer overflow in the zip_read_mac_metadata function in archive_read_support_format_zip.c in libarchive before 3.2.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via crafted entry-size values in a ZIP archive.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/23/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-1541 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow within the libarchive library's zip file processing functionality. This flaw exists in the zip_read_mac_metadata function located in archive_read_support_format_zip.c, affecting all versions prior to 3.2.0. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation when processing ZIP archive entries, specifically when handling crafted entry-size values that exceed the allocated buffer boundaries. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious ZIP archives containing oversized metadata entries that trigger the buffer overflow condition during decompression operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability follows a classic heap overflow pattern where the zip_read_mac_metadata function fails to properly validate the size parameters of metadata entries within ZIP archives. When the library processes a malformed ZIP file containing oversized entry-size values, it allocates memory based on these unvalidated sizes without proper bounds checking. This allows attackers to write beyond the allocated heap memory region, potentially overwriting adjacent memory structures including return addresses, function pointers, or other critical data elements. The vulnerability directly maps to CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking permits writes to heap memory beyond the allocated buffer boundaries.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to systems that process untrusted ZIP archives, including web servers, email gateways, file processing applications, and automated archive extraction services. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code on affected systems with the privileges of the process running the vulnerable libarchive library. The attack vector requires only the delivery of a maliciously crafted ZIP archive, making it particularly dangerous for automated processing environments. Systems that automatically extract or scan ZIP files without proper validation mechanisms become prime targets for exploitation, potentially leading to complete system compromise and persistent backdoor access.
The exploitation of CVE-2016-1541 aligns with several tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly those related to initial access through malicious file delivery and privilege escalation via code execution. The vulnerability can be classified under ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as successful exploitation typically results in arbitrary code execution that can be used to establish persistent access. Organizations should prioritize patching affected systems and implementing proper input validation for archive processing. The recommended mitigation strategy includes upgrading to libarchive version 3.2.0 or later, implementing network-based filtering for suspicious archive files, and deploying application whitelisting policies to restrict execution of untrusted archive processing utilities. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing runtime protections and memory corruption detection mechanisms to defend against potential exploitation attempts.