CVE-2016-4301 in libarchive
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the parse_device function in archive_read_support_format_mtree.c in libarchive before 3.2.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted mtree file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/19/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-4301 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within the libarchive library's mtree format parsing functionality. This issue exists in the parse_device function located in archive_read_support_format_mtree.c and affects all versions prior to 3.2.1. The vulnerability arises when processing maliciously crafted mtree files, which are commonly used to describe file system hierarchies and their attributes in Unix-like systems. The mtree format is widely utilized for system administration tasks including file verification, backup restoration, and package management operations, making this vulnerability particularly concerning from a security perspective.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the parse_device function where the software fails to properly bounds-check data read from mtree files. When a maliciously constructed mtree file is processed, the software attempts to store device information into a stack-allocated buffer without sufficient size verification. This allows attackers to overflow the buffer and potentially overwrite adjacent memory locations, including return addresses and function pointers. The vulnerability is classified as a stack-based buffer overflow under CWE-121, which specifically addresses buffer overflow conditions where data is written beyond the boundaries of stack-allocated buffers. The attack vector requires remote code execution through a crafted mtree file, making it particularly dangerous in scenarios where libarchive is used to process untrusted input from network sources or user-supplied archives.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution as it can lead to complete system compromise when libarchive is integrated into security-critical applications. Systems that utilize libarchive for processing user-uploaded archives, network file transfers, or automated backup operations become vulnerable to remote exploitation. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in web applications, file sharing systems, and network services that rely on libarchive for archive processing. Attackers can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected application, potentially leading to privilege escalation, data exfiltration, or complete system takeover. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script injection, as successful exploitation would enable attackers to execute malicious code within the target environment.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-4301 primarily focus on immediate version upgrades to libarchive 3.2.1 or later, which contain the necessary patches to address the buffer overflow condition. Organizations should prioritize patching all systems where libarchive is installed and actively used for processing untrusted archives. Additional defensive measures include implementing strict input validation procedures for mtree files, deploying network segmentation to limit exposure, and utilizing sandboxing techniques when processing potentially malicious archives. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual archive processing activities, and access controls should be enforced to limit who can upload or process mtree files within the system. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining up-to-date security libraries and implementing robust input validation practices as recommended by the OWASP Top Ten and other industry security frameworks.