CVE-2016-9804 in BlueZ
Summary
by MITRE
In BlueZ 5.42, a buffer overflow was observed in "commands_dump" function in "tools/parser/csr.c" source file. The issue exists because "commands" array is overflowed by supplied parameter due to lack of boundary checks on size of the buffer from frame "frm->ptr" parameter. This issue can be triggered by processing a corrupted dump file and will result in hcidump crash.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/04/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-9804 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the BlueZ Bluetooth protocol stack version 5.42. This issue resides in the commands_dump function located within the tools/parser/csr.c source file, demonstrating a fundamental failure in input validation and memory management practices. The flaw manifests when the system processes corrupted dump files through the hcidump utility, creating a scenario where maliciously crafted input can lead to system instability and potential exploitation. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it affects the core Bluetooth debugging and analysis tools that administrators and security professionals rely upon for system monitoring and troubleshooting.
The technical implementation of this buffer overflow stems from inadequate boundary checking mechanisms within the commands array handling code. When the frm->ptr parameter is processed, the system fails to validate the size constraints of the incoming data against the predetermined buffer limits. This lack of input sanitization creates a condition where the supplied parameter can exceed the allocated memory space for the commands array, leading to memory corruption and subsequent program termination. The flaw operates under CWE-121, which classifies buffer overflow conditions where insufficient boundary checks allow data to overwrite adjacent memory locations, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter usage in malicious contexts.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple program crashes to potentially enable more sophisticated attack vectors. When hcidump processes corrupted dump files, the buffer overflow can cause the utility to terminate unexpectedly, disrupting debugging operations and potentially masking legitimate Bluetooth communication issues. However, the vulnerability's true danger emerges when considering that attackers could craft malicious dump files designed to exploit this condition, potentially leading to denial of service scenarios or even code execution in certain environments. The issue affects systems where BlueZ is installed and hcidump is utilized for Bluetooth protocol analysis, particularly impacting enterprise networks and security monitoring infrastructures that rely on proper Bluetooth stack functionality.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-9804 should prioritize immediate patching of BlueZ installations to versions that address the buffer overflow condition through proper input validation and boundary checking mechanisms. System administrators should implement strict file validation procedures for any dump files processed through hcidump, particularly those originating from untrusted sources. Network segmentation and access controls should be strengthened to limit exposure to potentially malicious dump file processing. Additionally, monitoring solutions should be enhanced to detect unusual hcidump behavior or crash patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of input validation in security-critical applications and the necessity of implementing robust boundary checking mechanisms in protocol parsing utilities. Organizations should also consider implementing automated patch management processes to ensure timely remediation of similar vulnerabilities across their Bluetooth infrastructure deployments.