CVE-2017-1000074 in Gravity
Summary
by MITRE
Creolabs Gravity version 1.0 is vulnerable to a stack overflow in the string_repeat() function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/12/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-1000074 affects Creolabs Gravity version 1.0 and represents a critical stack overflow condition within the string_repeat() function. This flaw demonstrates a classic buffer management issue where insufficient input validation allows maliciously crafted data to overwrite adjacent memory locations on the stack. The vulnerability arises from the function's failure to properly bounds-check input parameters before performing repetitive string operations, creating an exploitable condition that can lead to arbitrary code execution or system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper memory allocation and handling within the string_repeat() function, which likely accepts user-supplied repeat counts without adequate verification. When an attacker provides an excessively large repeat value, the function attempts to allocate memory on the stack proportional to the input size, potentially exceeding the allocated stack space and causing stack corruption. This condition falls under CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is categorized as a fundamental memory safety issue that has been consistently exploited in various software systems. The vulnerability's exploitation pathway aligns with attack techniques documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1070 Indicator Removal on Host, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to execute malicious payloads or establish persistent access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service conditions, as it provides attackers with potential for complete system compromise. A successful exploitation could allow remote code execution with the privileges of the affected application, potentially leading to full system control or data exfiltration. The vulnerability's presence in a gravity-related application suggests it may be particularly dangerous in environments where such software handles sensitive data processing or network communications. Organizations utilizing Creolabs Gravity version 1.0 should immediately assess their exposure and implement mitigations, as stack overflow vulnerabilities of this nature are often exploited in advanced persistent threat campaigns. The flaw's severity is compounded by the fact that it likely affects multiple system components that rely on the string_repeat() function, potentially creating cascading security issues throughout the application ecosystem.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-1000074 should prioritize immediate patching of the Creolabs Gravity software to version 1.1 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the stack overflow condition. Additionally, input validation controls should be implemented at multiple layers to prevent malicious inputs from reaching the vulnerable function, including application-level sanitization and network-level filtering. System administrators should consider implementing runtime protections such as stack canaries or address space layout randomization to reduce exploit reliability. Network segmentation and access controls should be enforced to limit potential attack vectors, while regular security assessments should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the software stack. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of memory safety practices in software development and the necessity of comprehensive security testing throughout the software development lifecycle.