CVE-2018-17359 in binutils
Summary
by MITRE
An issue was discovered in the Binary File Descriptor (BFD) library (aka libbfd), as distributed in GNU Binutils 2.31. An invalid memory access exists in bfd_zalloc in opncls.c. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to cause a denial of service (application crash) via a crafted ELF file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/17/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-17359 represents a critical memory access issue within the Binary File Descriptor library, commonly known as BFD or libbfd, which is a core component of the GNU Binutils package. This library serves as a fundamental tool for handling various binary file formats, including executables, object files, and libraries across different architectures. The flaw specifically manifests in the bfd_zalloc function located within the opncls.c source file, where improper memory handling creates an avenue for malicious exploitation. The vulnerability affects GNU Binutils version 2.31, making it particularly concerning as this version was widely distributed and utilized across numerous operating systems and development environments.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from an invalid memory access condition that occurs during the allocation process within the BFD library. When processing a crafted ELF file, the bfd_zalloc function fails to properly validate memory boundaries or handle allocation requests correctly, leading to a scenario where the application attempts to access memory that has either not been allocated or has already been freed. This type of memory corruption vulnerability falls under the CWE-125 vulnerability category, which specifically addresses out-of-bounds read conditions that can result in application crashes or potentially more severe consequences. The improper handling of memory allocation in this context creates a predictable pattern that attackers can exploit to trigger the memory access violation.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-17359 extends beyond simple denial of service, as it represents a significant security risk for systems that process untrusted binary files. When exploited, this vulnerability can cause applications utilizing the BFD library to crash unexpectedly, effectively creating a denial of service condition that disrupts legitimate system operations. The attack vector requires an attacker to craft a malicious ELF file that, when processed by a vulnerable application, triggers the memory access violation. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where automated processing of binary files occurs, such as software build systems, malware analysis platforms, or any application that handles user-provided binary content. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the widespread use of GNU Binutils across various software development and system administration tools, making it a potential target for attackers seeking to disrupt critical infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected GNU Binutils installations to version 2.31.1 or later, which contains the necessary fixes to address the memory allocation issue in bfd_zalloc. System administrators should prioritize updating all systems that utilize the BFD library, particularly those in environments where processing untrusted binary files is common. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and sandboxing techniques can provide additional layers of protection, ensuring that even if an attacker successfully triggers the vulnerability, the impact remains contained. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under the T1203 technique for legitimate program execution, as the exploitation relies on the normal operation of legitimate system tools. Organizations should also consider implementing automated monitoring solutions that can detect unusual application crashes or memory access patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts, while maintaining compliance with security standards such as those outlined in NIST SP 800-128 for vulnerability management and remediation processes.