CVE-2017-15022 in binutils
Summary
by MITRE
dwarf2.c in the Binary File Descriptor (BFD) library (aka libbfd), as distributed in GNU Binutils 2.29, does not validate the DW_AT_name data type, which allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (bfd_hash_hash NULL pointer dereference, or out-of-bounds access, and application crash) via a crafted ELF file, related to scan_unit_for_symbols and parse_comp_unit.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/30/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-15022 resides within the Binary File Descriptor (BFD) library, specifically in the dwarf2.c file, which is part of GNU Binutils version 2.29. This flaw represents a critical security issue affecting the processing of DWARF debugging information within ELF files. The BFD library serves as a fundamental component for handling various binary formats, making this vulnerability particularly concerning as it can impact numerous tools that rely on proper binary analysis capabilities. The vulnerability manifests when the library fails to properly validate the DW_AT_name data type during the parsing of debugging information, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit the system through carefully crafted ELF files.
The technical flaw stems from insufficient input validation within the scan_unit_for_symbols and parse_comp_unit functions of the dwarf2.c implementation. When processing ELF files containing malformed DW_AT_name attributes, the BFD library attempts to dereference a NULL pointer or access memory beyond allocated bounds, resulting in application crashes and system instability. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of improper input validation as classified by CWE-20, specifically manifesting as a NULL pointer dereference or out-of-bounds memory access. The vulnerability exploits the absence of proper bounds checking and validation mechanisms that should occur during the parsing of debugging information sections within ELF binaries.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-15022 extends beyond simple denial of service, as it can be leveraged by remote attackers to disrupt services and potentially escalate their attacks. Applications that utilize the BFD library for binary analysis, including debuggers, disassemblers, and security tools, become vulnerable to crashes when processing maliciously crafted ELF files. This vulnerability can be particularly dangerous in automated systems where binary analysis is performed without proper sanitization, as it could lead to service interruptions and system instability. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which involves the use of system binaries to execute malicious code or cause system disruptions.
The exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to craft a specific ELF file containing malformed DW_AT_name data that triggers the flawed validation logic within the BFD library. Once processed by applications utilizing the affected library, the malformed data causes the application to crash or behave unpredictably. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of robust input validation in security-critical libraries, as the lack of proper validation can lead to complete system instability. Security practitioners should note that this vulnerability affects not only direct users of binutils but also any system where applications might process ELF files through the BFD library interface.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-15022 primarily involve updating to patched versions of GNU Binutils where the validation issues have been addressed. System administrators should prioritize updating their binutils installations to versions that contain the necessary fixes for the dwarf2.c validation logic. Additionally, implementing proper input sanitization measures and avoiding processing untrusted binary files through vulnerable applications can help reduce the risk. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure to potentially malicious binary files, particularly in environments where automated binary analysis occurs. The fix implemented in patched versions typically involves adding proper validation checks for DW_AT_name data types and ensuring that NULL pointer dereferences are prevented during debugging information parsing.