CVE-2023-33552 in erofs-utils
Summary
by MITRE • 06/01/2023
Heap Buffer Overflow in the erofs_read_one_data function at data.c in erofs-utils v1.6 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted erofs filesystem image.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/05/2026
The heap buffer overflow vulnerability in erofs-utils version 1.6 represents a critical security flaw that can be exploited by remote attackers to achieve arbitrary code execution. This vulnerability exists within the erofs_read_one_data function in the data.c source file of the erofs-utils package, which is part of the Extended Reiserfs (erofs) filesystem utilities. The flaw manifests when processing crafted erofs filesystem images, creating a scenario where attacker-controlled input can overwrite adjacent heap memory regions. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 heap-based buffer overflow category, which is classified as a serious memory safety issue that can lead to system compromise and arbitrary code execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking within the erofs_read_one_data function, which fails to properly validate the size of data structures before attempting to read or write to heap-allocated memory regions. When a maliciously crafted erofs filesystem image is processed by the affected software, the function reads data without sufficient validation of buffer boundaries, allowing an attacker to overflow heap memory and potentially overwrite critical data structures or function pointers. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be triggered through remote file processing, meaning that an attacker could deliver a malicious filesystem image via network shares, removable media, or other remote access mechanisms without requiring local system access. This makes the exploit vector particularly dangerous in environments where users might encounter untrusted filesystem images.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-33552 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass potential system compromise and data integrity violations. When successfully exploited, the heap buffer overflow can allow attackers to gain control over the process executing the erofs utilities, potentially leading to privilege escalation or complete system compromise depending on the execution context. The vulnerability affects systems that utilize erofs filesystems or process erofs images through the affected utilities, which includes various Linux distributions and embedded systems that rely on erofs for storage management. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to execute malicious payloads, establish persistence mechanisms, or conduct further reconnaissance within the compromised system. The attack chain typically involves preparing a malicious filesystem image, delivering it to a target system, and then triggering the vulnerable code path through normal filesystem operations or file processing activities.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of affected systems with the latest version of erofs-utils that contains the necessary fixes. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure to potentially malicious filesystem images, particularly in environments where untrusted data might be processed automatically. Additionally, security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual filesystem processing activities or attempts to mount malicious filesystem images. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as exploitation typically involves executing code through legitimate system utilities. System administrators should also consider implementing automated vulnerability scanning tools to identify systems running vulnerable versions of erofs-utils, and establish incident response procedures for handling potential exploitation attempts. Regular security updates and patch management processes should be prioritized to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited in the future, as this type of memory corruption vulnerability often indicates broader issues in the codebase's memory management practices.