CVE-2017-9743 in binutils
Summary
by MITRE
The print_insn_score32 function in opcodes/score7-dis.c:552 in GNU Binutils 2.28 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (buffer overflow and application crash) or possibly have unspecified other impact via a crafted binary file, as demonstrated by mishandling of this file during "objdump -D" execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/29/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-9743 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the GNU Binutils 2.28 distribution, specifically affecting the print_insn_score32 function located in the opcodes/score7-dis.c file at line 552. This issue arises during the disassembly process when the objdump utility attempts to analyze binary files, creating a potential attack vector that could be exploited by remote adversaries to disrupt system operations. The flaw manifests when processing specially crafted binary files that trigger improper memory handling during instruction decoding, ultimately leading to application instability and potential system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the score7-dis.c module, which is responsible for disassembling SCORE7 architecture instructions. When the print_insn_score32 function encounters malformed or crafted input data, it fails to properly bounds-check memory allocations, allowing attackers to overflow buffer structures and corrupt adjacent memory regions. This type of flaw falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category of buffer overflow vulnerabilities, specifically classified as CWE-121 which encompasses heap-based buffer overflow conditions. The vulnerability demonstrates characteristics consistent with the ATT&CK framework's technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as the exploitation can occur during normal system operations when binary analysis tools are invoked.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-9743 extends beyond simple denial of service, as it creates potential pathways for more sophisticated attacks that could leverage the buffer overflow to execute arbitrary code or escalate privileges. Remote attackers capable of influencing the input to objdump commands could trigger application crashes, leading to persistent denial of service conditions that affect system availability and reliability. In environments where automated binary analysis is performed, such as software development pipelines or security scanning systems, this vulnerability could be exploited to disrupt legitimate operations and compromise system integrity. The vulnerability affects systems running GNU Binutils 2.28 and potentially earlier versions, making it a widespread concern across various software development and security analysis environments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-9743 should prioritize immediate patching of affected GNU Binutils installations to version 2.29 or later, where the buffer overflow has been addressed through proper input validation and memory management. System administrators should implement restrictive file access controls and input sanitization measures for binary files processed by objdump and similar utilities, particularly in environments where untrusted input is common. Network segmentation and monitoring of objdump execution activities can help detect potential exploitation attempts, while regular vulnerability assessments should include checks for outdated binutils installations. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing automated patch management processes to ensure timely deployment of security updates and maintain compliance with industry security standards such as those outlined in NIST SP 800-128 for vulnerability management practices.