CVE-2017-2808 in Ledger-CLI
Summary
by MITRE
An exploitable use-after-free vulnerability exists in the account parsing component of the Ledger-CLI 3.1.1. A specially crafted ledger file can cause a use-after-free vulnerability resulting in arbitrary code execution. An attacker can convince a user to load a journal file to trigger this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/27/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-2808 represents a critical use-after-free flaw within the Ledger-CLI accounting software version 3.1.1. This vulnerability resides in the account parsing component of the application, which processes ledger files containing financial transaction data. The flaw manifests when the software attempts to parse maliciously crafted journal files that exploit memory management errors during the account parsing process. The vulnerability classification aligns with CWE-416, which specifically addresses use-after-free conditions where memory is accessed after it has been freed, creating potential for arbitrary code execution. Ledger-CLI is widely used for personal and business financial accounting, making this vulnerability particularly concerning as it affects applications handling sensitive financial data.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of ledger journal files that contain specially crafted account data structures. When the vulnerable parsing component processes these malicious inputs, it frees memory associated with account objects while simultaneously allowing subsequent references to access that freed memory location. This memory management error creates a scenario where an attacker can overwrite freed memory with controlled data, potentially leading to code execution. The attack vector requires social engineering to convince users to load the malicious journal file, as the vulnerability is triggered during normal file processing operations. The exploitability is enhanced by the fact that Ledger-CLI is commonly used for financial reporting and accounting, making users likely to open various journal files from different sources.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it enables attackers to gain full control over systems running vulnerable versions of Ledger-CLI. The arbitrary code execution capability allows adversaries to install malware, steal financial data, or establish persistent access to compromised systems. Financial institutions and individuals using Ledger-CLI for accounting purposes face significant risk, as the vulnerability could be exploited to manipulate financial records or access sensitive accounting information. The vulnerability affects both personal and enterprise users of the software, creating widespread potential for exploitation across different organizational sizes. Additionally, the nature of financial accounting data means that successful exploitation could result in substantial financial losses and regulatory compliance violations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-2808 primarily focus on immediate software updates and operational security measures. The most effective solution involves upgrading to a patched version of Ledger-CLI that addresses the memory management issues in the account parsing component. Organizations should implement strict file validation procedures and avoid opening journal files from untrusted sources. Network segmentation and access controls can help limit the potential impact if exploitation occurs. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual file processing activities and memory access patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper memory management in financial software applications and highlights the need for regular security updates. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to technique T1059 for command and scripting interpreter, as exploitation may involve executing malicious code within the application environment. System administrators should also consider implementing sandboxing mechanisms for processing ledger files and establishing secure file handling protocols to prevent unauthorized access to financial data.