CVE-2017-5834 in libplist
Summary
by MITRE
The parse_dict_node function in bplist.c in libplist allows attackers to cause a denial of service (out-of-bounds heap read and crash) via a crafted file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/04/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-5834 resides within the libplist library's bplist.c component, specifically within the parse_dict_node function that processes binary property list files. This flaw represents a classic heap-based buffer overflow condition that occurs when the library fails to properly validate input data structures before attempting to parse them. The issue manifests when an attacker crafts a malicious binary property list file that contains malformed dictionary node data, causing the parsing routine to attempt reading memory locations beyond the allocated heap buffer boundaries.
This vulnerability operates at the intersection of memory safety and input validation failures, with the technical implementation exhibiting characteristics consistent with CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions. The parse_dict_node function does not perform adequate bounds checking on the data it processes, allowing an attacker to manipulate the parsing logic through carefully constructed input sequences. When the function attempts to access memory locations beyond the intended buffer limits, it triggers a heap read violation that ultimately results in a program crash or complete denial of service condition.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple service disruption, as it can be exploited in various contexts where libplist is utilized for processing user-supplied binary property list data. Systems relying on this library for handling configuration files, preference data, or application metadata become susceptible to denial of service attacks that can render services unavailable or cause applications to terminate unexpectedly. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal privileges and can be executed through simple file manipulation, making it particularly dangerous in environments where automated processing of external data occurs.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the ATT&CK framework, specifically under the T1499 category of Network Denial of Service, as it enables attackers to disrupt service availability through crafted input data. Mitigation strategies should focus on input validation and bounds checking implementation, with immediate patching of affected libplist versions being the primary recommendation. Organizations should also implement defensive measures such as input sanitization, file type validation, and restricted file processing permissions to reduce the attack surface. Additionally, monitoring for unusual file processing patterns and implementing automated vulnerability scanning can help detect potential exploitation attempts before they succeed in causing service disruption.