CVE-2017-5601 in libarchive
Summary
by MITRE
An error in the lha_read_file_header_1() function (archive_read_support_format_lha.c) in libarchive 3.2.2 allows remote attackers to trigger an out-of-bounds read memory access and subsequently cause a crash via a specially crafted archive.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/16/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-5601 resides within the libarchive library version 3.2.2, specifically within the lha_read_file_header_1() function located in the archive_read_support_format_lha.c source file. This flaw represents a critical memory safety issue that manifests when processing specially crafted archive files using the LHA (LHA is a compression format) archive format support. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and boundary checking during the parsing of archive headers, creating a scenario where maliciously constructed archive files can trigger unintended memory access patterns.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves an out-of-bounds read condition that occurs when the lha_read_file_header_1() function processes file headers within LHA archives. When the function encounters malformed or specially crafted archive data, it fails to properly validate the size or structure of the header fields before attempting to read memory locations beyond the allocated buffer boundaries. This memory access violation results in unpredictable behavior including application crashes, segmentation faults, or potential information disclosure. The flaw operates at the level of memory management and buffer handling, making it particularly dangerous in applications that process untrusted archive files.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-5601 extends beyond simple application instability to encompass potential denial of service scenarios and system compromise. Remote attackers can exploit this vulnerability by constructing malicious LHA archive files that, when processed by vulnerable applications, trigger the out-of-bounds read condition. This vulnerability affects any software that utilizes libarchive 3.2.2 for archive processing, including web applications, file management systems, and security tools that handle compressed file formats. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and represents a classic example of memory safety issues that can lead to system instability and potential exploitation. The attack vector is particularly concerning as it requires no special privileges and can be executed through simple file processing operations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-5601 primarily focus on updating to patched versions of libarchive where the vulnerability has been addressed through proper input validation and boundary checking mechanisms. Organizations should prioritize upgrading to libarchive versions 3.2.3 or later, which contain the necessary fixes for the out-of-bounds read condition. Additionally, implementing proper input sanitization and validation at application layers can provide additional defense-in-depth measures. Security practitioners should consider deploying runtime protections such as address space layout randomization and stack canaries to reduce exploitability. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of regular security audits and vulnerability assessments of third-party libraries used in applications, as this flaw demonstrates how seemingly minor implementation details in archive processing can result in significant security risks. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to the T1203 - Exploitation for Client Execution tactic, as it enables remote code execution through application exploitation, and T1499 - Endpoint Denial of Service, due to the crash conditions it can induce.