CVE-2017-2885 in libsoup
Summary
by MITRE
An exploitable stack based buffer overflow vulnerability exists in the GNOME libsoup 2.58. A specially crafted HTTP request can cause a stack overflow resulting in remote code execution. An attacker can send a special HTTP request to the vulnerable server to trigger this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/07/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-2885 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow within the GNOME libsoup library version 2.58, which serves as a fundamental HTTP client and server library for numerous applications and services. This flaw resides in the library's handling of HTTP requests, specifically when processing malformed or crafted input data that exceeds allocated stack buffer boundaries. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and bounds checking mechanisms within the library's HTTP parsing routines, creating an exploitable condition that allows remote attackers to manipulate memory layout through carefully constructed HTTP requests. The stack overflow occurs when the library attempts to store data exceeding the predetermined buffer size on the program's stack memory segment, leading to potential overwrite of adjacent memory locations including return addresses and stack canaries.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to craft a specific HTTP request that triggers the buffer overflow condition during the parsing of HTTP headers or content. The flaw manifests when the library processes an HTTP request containing oversized data elements that exceed the allocated stack buffer space, typically through malformed header values or content-length specifications that cause the program to write beyond its intended memory boundaries. This overflow can result in arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the affected process, potentially allowing attackers to gain complete control over the vulnerable system. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which specifically addresses buffer overflows occurring in stack memory regions. The attack vector requires network access to the vulnerable service and can be executed remotely without authentication, making it particularly dangerous for web servers and applications that utilize the affected libsoup library.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-2885 extends beyond individual system compromise to affect entire network infrastructures that depend on GNOME libsoup for HTTP communications. Applications ranging from web browsers to network monitoring tools and server applications that incorporate this library become potential attack vectors, creating widespread exposure across various software ecosystems. The vulnerability's remote execution capability means that attackers can exploit it from anywhere on the network, making traditional network segmentation ineffective as a protective measure. Organizations running services such as web servers, proxy servers, or any HTTP-based applications that utilize libsoup 2.58 are at risk, particularly those that do not properly validate incoming HTTP requests or implement adequate input sanitization measures. The vulnerability's presence in a widely used library increases the attack surface significantly, as numerous applications and services may be unknowingly vulnerable.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-2885 focus primarily on immediate patching and updating of affected systems to versions that contain the necessary security fixes. The most effective remediation involves upgrading to GNOME libsoup versions that have addressed this specific buffer overflow issue through proper bounds checking and input validation mechanisms. System administrators should also implement network-level protections such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious HTTP traffic patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, implementing proper HTTP request validation, limiting request sizes, and applying input sanitization measures can reduce the likelihood of successful exploitation. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving remote code execution and privilege escalation, with the attack chain typically following the pattern of initial access through network-based exploitation followed by command execution and potential lateral movement within the compromised environment. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies and monitoring for unusual process behavior that might indicate exploitation of this vulnerability.