CVE-2017-7607 in elfutils
Summary
by MITRE
The handle_gnu_hash function in readelf.c in elfutils 0.168 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (heap-based buffer over-read and application crash) via a crafted ELF file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/28/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-7607 resides within the elfutils library, specifically in the handle_gnu_hash function located in readelf.c version 0.168. This flaw represents a heap-based buffer over-read that can be exploited by remote attackers to trigger a denial of service condition. The issue manifests when the readelf utility processes maliciously crafted ELF files, causing the application to crash and potentially leading to system instability. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it affects a widely used binary analysis tool that is integral to many system administration and security auditing processes.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper bounds checking within the GNU hash handling logic. When the handle_gnu_hash function processes a specially constructed ELF file, it fails to validate the size of hash table entries before attempting to read from memory locations beyond the allocated buffer boundaries. This classic buffer over-read condition occurs because the function assumes certain data structures maintain expected sizes and layouts without adequate validation. The flaw can be categorized under CWE-129 as an insufficient bound checking vulnerability, where the application fails to verify that input data conforms to expected size constraints before processing. The vulnerability demonstrates characteristics consistent with heap-based memory corruption issues that are commonly exploited in software exploitation frameworks.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-7607 extends beyond simple denial of service, as it can disrupt critical system operations that depend on elfutils functionality. System administrators and security professionals who rely on readelf for binary analysis, package verification, or malware analysis may experience unexpected application crashes when processing untrusted ELF files. This vulnerability affects systems where elfutils is installed and used for routine operations, potentially creating cascading effects in automated security monitoring systems that depend on reliable binary analysis tools. The vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including email attachments, software downloads, or web-based file processing scenarios, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users process external binary content.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-7607 should prioritize immediate patching of affected elfutils installations to version 0.170 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the buffer over-read condition. Organizations should implement defensive measures such as restricting access to potentially malicious ELF files through sandboxed processing environments or automated scanning systems that can detect malformed binary structures before they reach the vulnerable readelf utility. Network administrators should consider implementing file type validation and content inspection mechanisms to prevent the processing of suspicious ELF files in critical systems. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for executing malicious code through command-line interfaces, as attackers could potentially use this vulnerability to disrupt system operations in targeted environments. Additionally, regular security assessments should include verification of elfutils installations to ensure they remain patched against known vulnerabilities and maintain proper input validation controls.