CVE-2016-2050 in libdwarf
Summary
by MITRE
The get_abbrev_array_info function in libdwarf-20151114 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (out-of-bounds write) via a crafted elf file.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/11/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-2050 resides within the libdwarf library version 20151114, specifically in the get_abbrev_array_info function which is responsible for processing debug information within elf files. This flaw represents a critical security issue that can be exploited by remote attackers to execute denial of service attacks through carefully crafted elf binary files. The vulnerability manifests as an out-of-bounds write condition that occurs when the function processes malformed debug abbreviation arrays, potentially leading to system instability or complete service disruption. The affected library is widely used across various operating systems and software applications for processing debug information, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it can impact numerous systems and services that rely on proper debug data handling.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the get_abbrev_array_info function, which fails to properly bounds-check array access operations when processing debug information structures within elf files. When an attacker supplies a maliciously crafted elf file containing malformed debug abbreviation data, the function attempts to write beyond the allocated memory boundaries, resulting in unpredictable behavior including program crashes, memory corruption, or system instability. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-787 category of out-of-bounds write conditions, which is classified as a serious weakness in software security. The vulnerability can be exploited through the standard exploitation techniques described in the attack pattern taxonomy under ATT&CK framework, specifically through the use of malicious file delivery methods that target applications utilizing the vulnerable libdwarf library.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-2050 extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as it can affect critical system components that depend on debug information processing. Systems that process elf files from untrusted sources, such as package managers, file analysis tools, or security scanning applications, become vulnerable to this attack vector. The vulnerability can be particularly dangerous in environments where automated processing of binary files occurs, as it can lead to cascading failures across multiple services. Additionally, the out-of-bounds write condition may potentially be exploited for more advanced attack techniques if combined with other vulnerabilities, though the primary risk remains denial of service. The vulnerability affects systems running the affected libdwarf version and can be exploited by any entity capable of delivering a malicious elf file to a target system that processes such files through the vulnerable library.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-2050 primarily focus on updating to patched versions of the libdwarf library, as the vulnerability has been addressed in subsequent releases. Organizations should prioritize patch management procedures to ensure all systems utilizing the affected library receive the necessary updates. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and sanitization measures within applications that process elf files can provide defense-in-depth protection against exploitation attempts. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of systems that process untrusted elf files, while monitoring systems should be configured to detect unusual file processing patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure coding practices and thorough code review processes to prevent similar out-of-bounds write conditions in other software components. Security teams should also consider implementing sandboxing mechanisms for elf file analysis to isolate potential exploitation attempts and prevent system-wide impact from successful attacks against this vulnerability.