CVE-2017-9041 in binutils
Summary
by MITRE
GNU Binutils 2.28 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (heap-based buffer over-read and application crash) via a crafted ELF file, related to MIPS GOT mishandling in the process_mips_specific function in readelf.c.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/04/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-9041 represents a critical heap-based buffer over-read flaw within GNU Binutils version 2.28 that specifically affects the readelf utility. This issue stems from improper handling of MIPS Global Offset Table (GOT) entries during ELF file processing, creating a condition where maliciously crafted ELF files can trigger memory corruption. The vulnerability exists in the process_mips_specific function located within the readelf.c source file, which processes MIPS-specific sections of ELF binaries. When the utility encounters a specially constructed ELF file containing malformed MIPS GOT entries, the parsing logic fails to properly validate buffer boundaries, leading to unauthorized memory access patterns.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a heap-based buffer over-read condition that fundamentally violates memory safety principles. The flaw manifests when readelf attempts to parse MIPS-specific sections of ELF files, particularly those containing corrupted or malformed GOT entries. The process_mips_specific function does not adequately validate the size or structure of GOT entries before attempting to read data from heap-allocated buffers. This improper boundary checking allows attackers to craft ELF files that cause the application to read beyond allocated memory boundaries, resulting in undefined behavior that typically manifests as application crashes or denial of service conditions. The vulnerability specifically targets heap memory regions, making it particularly dangerous as it can lead to memory corruption that might be exploited further in advanced attack scenarios.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-9041 extends beyond simple denial of service to potentially compromise system stability and availability. Organizations relying on GNU Binutils for binary analysis, debugging, or system administration tasks face significant risk when processing untrusted ELF files, as the vulnerability can be triggered through normal file processing operations. Attackers can leverage this flaw to disrupt services by causing readelf to crash, effectively preventing legitimate users from performing essential binary analysis tasks. The vulnerability affects systems where readelf is used in automated processing pipelines, file validation systems, or security scanning tools that process potentially malicious ELF files. In environments where continuous monitoring or automated binary analysis is performed, this vulnerability can create persistent availability issues that impact operational continuity and system reliability.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-9041 focus primarily on software updates and input validation measures. The most effective remediation involves upgrading to GNU Binutils version 2.29 or later, where the buffer over-read condition has been addressed through proper boundary checking and input validation. System administrators should implement immediate patch management protocols to ensure all affected systems receive the necessary updates. Additionally, organizations can implement defensive measures such as restricting access to readelf for untrusted users or employing sandboxing techniques when processing ELF files. Input validation controls should be enhanced to reject malformed ELF files before they reach the readelf utility, particularly in automated processing environments. 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 through command-line interfaces. Organizations should also consider implementing runtime monitoring to detect anomalous behavior patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, while maintaining comprehensive logging of readelf usage to facilitate incident response activities.