CVE-2016-2347 in Lhasa
Summary
by MITRE
Integer underflow in the decode_level3_header function in lib/lha_file_header.c in Lhasa before 0.3.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted archive.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/10/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-2347 represents a critical integer underflow flaw within the Lhasa library version 0.3.0 and earlier, specifically within the decode_level3_header function located in lib/lha_file_header.c. This vulnerability arises from improper input validation and handling of archive headers, creating a condition where an attacker can manipulate the size parameters of archive entries to trigger arithmetic underflow conditions. The flaw occurs when the library processes LHA format archives, particularly those using level 3 compression, which are commonly used for archiving and data compression in various systems and applications.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the manipulation of archive header fields that specify file sizes and offsets within the archive structure. When an attacker crafts a malicious archive with carefully manipulated header values, the integer underflow condition causes the library to interpret these values incorrectly, leading to memory corruption that can be exploited to execute arbitrary code. The underflow occurs during the processing of header information where unsigned integer arithmetic operations result in values that fall below the minimum representable value, causing unpredictable behavior in the memory management and control flow of the affected application. This type of vulnerability is classified under CWE-191 as Integer Underflow (Wrap or Wraparound) and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it allows remote attackers to gain unauthorized control over systems that utilize the vulnerable Lhasa library. Applications that process untrusted archive files, including file extraction utilities, backup systems, and content delivery platforms, become susceptible to exploitation. The remote nature of the attack means that adversaries can exploit this vulnerability without requiring physical access to the target system, making it particularly dangerous in networked environments. Systems that automatically process or extract archive files from untrusted sources are at high risk, including web applications, email servers, and automated backup solutions that handle LHA format archives.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-2347 require immediate patching of the Lhasa library to version 0.3.1 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the integer underflow condition. Organizations should also implement robust input validation and sanitization measures for all archive processing functions, particularly those handling LHA format files. Network segmentation and access controls should be strengthened to limit exposure of systems that process untrusted archive data. Additionally, application developers should employ address space layout randomization, stack canaries, and other exploit mitigation techniques to reduce the effectiveness of potential exploitation attempts. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar integer overflow and underflow conditions in other third-party libraries and components used within the system infrastructure.