CVE-2022-48554 in File
Summary
by MITRE • 08/22/2023
File before 5.43 has an stack-based buffer over-read in file_copystr in funcs.c. NOTE: "File" is the name of an Open Source project.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/14/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-48554 represents a critical stack-based buffer over-read flaw within the file command utility, an essential tool for identifying file types and formats in Unix-like operating systems. This issue affects versions prior to 5.43 of the file command, which is widely used across various operating systems and security tools for file type detection. The vulnerability resides in the file_copystr function located within the funcs.c source file, where improper bounds checking allows for memory access beyond the allocated buffer boundaries. The file command serves as a fundamental component in many security frameworks, system administration tools, and automated scanning systems, making this vulnerability particularly concerning from a cybersecurity perspective.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and memory management within the file_copystr function. When processing certain file formats or malformed input data, the function attempts to copy string data without sufficient boundary checks, leading to a buffer over-read condition. This condition occurs on the stack where the program accesses memory locations beyond the intended buffer limits, potentially exposing sensitive data or causing unpredictable program behavior. The vulnerability can be triggered through crafted file inputs that exploit the lack of proper bounds checking during string copying operations. According to CWE standards, this maps to CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which specifically addresses buffer overflows occurring in stack memory regions. The attack vector typically involves feeding specially crafted input files to the file command, which then processes these inputs through the vulnerable copystr function.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-48554 extends beyond simple program crashes or data corruption, presenting potential security risks that could be exploited in various attack scenarios. In environments where the file command is used for automated file analysis, security scanning, or content filtering, an attacker could potentially leverage this vulnerability to extract sensitive information from memory or cause denial of service conditions. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in security toolchains where file command is integrated into larger frameworks, as it could provide an entry point for more sophisticated attacks. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability could be categorized under T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1566 Impairing Defenses, as it could enable adversaries to gain information about system memory or disrupt system operations. The vulnerability affects not only individual systems but also security infrastructure that relies on the file command for automated analysis, potentially creating cascading effects across multiple security tools and platforms.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-48554 primarily focus on immediate version upgrades to file command 5.43 or later, which includes the necessary patches to address the buffer over-read condition. System administrators should prioritize updating their file command installations across all systems where the utility is deployed, particularly in security-sensitive environments. Additionally, implementing input validation measures and sandboxing techniques can provide additional defense layers against exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider monitoring for unusual file command behavior or memory access patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of regular security updates and proper input validation in system utilities, as even widely-used tools like the file command can contain critical flaws that impact overall system security posture. Security teams should also review their file analysis workflows to ensure that they are not inadvertently exposing systems to this vulnerability through automated processing of untrusted file inputs.