CVE-2023-40294 in Boron
Summary
by MITRE • 08/14/2023
libboron in Boron 2.0.8 has a heap-based buffer overflow in ur_parseBlockI at i_parse_blk.c.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/27/2026
The vulnerability resides within the libboron library version 2.0.8 of the Boron software suite, specifically in the ur_parseBlockI function located in the i_parse_blk.c source file. This heap-based buffer overflow represents a critical memory corruption flaw that occurs during the parsing of block structures within the library's processing pipeline. The vulnerability manifests when the application processes malformed or specially crafted input data that exceeds the allocated buffer boundaries, allowing an attacker to overwrite adjacent heap memory regions with arbitrary data.
The technical implementation of this flaw stems from inadequate bounds checking within the ur_parseBlockI function, which fails to properly validate the size of incoming data before attempting to copy it into fixed-size heap buffers. This deficiency creates an exploitable condition where malicious input can cause the program to write beyond allocated memory boundaries, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or application crashes. The vulnerability operates at the heap level, meaning that attackers can manipulate heap metadata and pointers through controlled buffer overflows, making exploitation more sophisticated but equally dangerous compared to stack-based counterparts.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risks to systems utilizing Boron 2.0.8 libraries, particularly in environments where untrusted data processing occurs. The impact extends beyond simple application instability to potential remote code execution capabilities when combined with other exploitation techniques such as heap spraying or pointer manipulation. Attackers could leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected process, potentially leading to full system compromise. The vulnerability affects any application that relies on libboron for parsing operations, making it particularly concerning in enterprise environments where such libraries are widely deployed.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability include immediate patching of all affected systems to version 2.0.9 or later, which contains the necessary bounds checking fixes and memory validation routines. Organizations should implement input sanitization measures at multiple layers, including application-level validation and network-based filtering to prevent malformed data from reaching vulnerable components. Additionally, deployment of address space layout randomization ASLR and data execution prevention DEP mechanisms can significantly increase the difficulty of exploitation attempts. The vulnerability maps to CWE-121 heap-based buffer overflow and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter with potential lateral movement through compromised processes. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar memory corruption patterns in other library components, while implementing proper code review processes that emphasize secure coding practices for buffer handling operations.