CVE-2017-12455 in binutils
Summary
by MITRE
The evax_bfd_print_emh function in vms-alpha.c in the Binary File Descriptor (BFD) library (aka libbfd), as distributed in GNU Binutils 2.29 and earlier, allows remote attackers to cause an out of bounds heap read via a crafted vms alpha file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/05/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-12455 resides within the Binary File Descriptor (BFD) library, specifically in the evax_bfd_print_emh function located in vms-alpha.c. This flaw affects GNU Binutils versions 2.29 and earlier, representing a critical security issue that can be exploited remotely to execute unauthorized heap memory access operations. The BFD library serves as a fundamental component for handling various binary file formats, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it could impact numerous applications and systems that rely on proper binary file processing capabilities.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and bounds checking within the evax_bfd_print_emh function. When processing crafted VMS Alpha files, the function fails to properly validate array indices or memory access boundaries, leading to an out of bounds heap read condition. This occurs because the function does not adequately verify the size or structure of the input data before attempting to access memory locations, allowing attackers to craft malicious VMS Alpha files that trigger memory corruption behaviors. The vulnerability manifests as a heap-based buffer over-read, where the program attempts to read memory beyond the allocated buffer boundaries, potentially exposing sensitive data or causing unpredictable application behavior.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it represents a potential vector for information disclosure and system compromise. Remote attackers can exploit this flaw by delivering specially crafted VMS Alpha files to systems running affected versions of GNU Binutils, potentially gaining access to sensitive heap memory contents that could include cryptographic keys, user credentials, or other confidential information. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and represents a classic example of how improper input validation can lead to memory safety issues. The exploitability of this vulnerability is particularly concerning given that the affected BFD library is widely used across various software tools and development environments, making the potential attack surface extensive.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-12455 should prioritize immediate software updates to GNU Binutils versions 2.30 and later, where the vulnerability has been addressed through proper bounds checking and input validation mechanisms. System administrators should conduct comprehensive inventory assessments to identify all systems running vulnerable versions of the BFD library and implement patch management procedures to ensure timely remediation. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure to potentially malicious file processing operations, particularly in environments where untrusted binary files may be processed. The remediation efforts should also include monitoring for unusual memory access patterns or potential exploitation attempts, as outlined in the attack techniques documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1059 and T1203 categories, which relate to command and control communications and exploitation of software vulnerabilities.