CVE-2017-7610 in elfutils
Summary
by MITRE
The check_group function in elflint.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.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/28/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-7610 represents a critical heap-based buffer over-read flaw within the elfutils library suite, specifically affecting the check_group function in the elflint.c component. This issue arises from insufficient input validation when processing malformed ELF (Executable and Linkable Format) files, creating a scenario where remote attackers can exploit the vulnerability by crafting specially designed ELF binaries. The vulnerability exists in elfutils version 0.168 and demonstrates a classic buffer over-read condition that can lead to application instability and complete system service disruption.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper bounds checking within the check_group function which processes group information in ELF files. When the function encounters a malformed ELF file containing crafted group data, it fails to properly validate the size and structure of the group section before attempting to read from memory locations beyond the allocated buffer boundaries. This memory access violation occurs during the static analysis phase of ELF file validation, where the elflint utility attempts to verify the integrity and structure of executable files. The flaw manifests as a heap-based buffer over-read, meaning that the application reads memory beyond the allocated heap buffer, potentially accessing uninitialized memory or data belonging to other program components.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-7610 extends beyond simple denial of service, as it creates a potential vector for more sophisticated attacks within systems that rely on elfutils for file validation and analysis. Systems utilizing elflint for automated security scanning, package validation, or file integrity checking become vulnerable to remote exploitation, potentially allowing attackers to cause application crashes that could be leveraged in broader attack chains. The vulnerability affects any system where elfutils is installed and used for ELF file analysis, including development environments, security scanning tools, and system administration utilities that depend on proper ELF file validation. This creates a significant risk in environments where automated file validation processes are employed, as a single malicious ELF file could cause widespread service disruption.
Security practitioners should implement immediate mitigations including updating to elfutils versions 0.170 or later where this vulnerability has been patched, as well as deploying defensive measures such as input validation for ELF files in automated scanning systems. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and can be mapped to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for execution via file validation processes. Organizations should also consider implementing network-level filtering to prevent execution of untrusted ELF files in critical systems, and conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify all systems running vulnerable versions of elfutils. The patch for this vulnerability typically involves implementing proper bounds checking and input validation within the check_group function to prevent memory access violations when processing malformed ELF file structures.