apk 2.5.0_rc1 on Alpine Package APKINDEX.tar.gz memory corruption

Summaryinfo

A vulnerability, which was classified as critical, was found in apk 2.5.0_rc1 on Alpine. This impacts an unknown function of the file APKINDEX.tar.gz of the component Package Handler. The manipulation results in memory corruption. This vulnerability was named CVE-2017-9669. The attack may be performed from remote. There is no available exploit.

Detailsinfo

A vulnerability, which was classified as critical, was found in apk 2.5.0_rc1 on Alpine. Affected is some unknown functionality of the file APKINDEX.tar.gz of the component Package Handler. The manipulation with an unknown input leads to a memory corruption vulnerability. CWE is classifying the issue as CWE-119. The product performs operations on a memory buffer, but it can read from or write to a memory location that is outside of the intended boundary of the buffer. This is going to have an impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. CVE summarizes:

A heap overflow in apk (Alpine Linux's package manager) allows a remote attacker to cause a denial of service, or achieve code execution by crafting a malicious APKINDEX.tar.gz file.

The bug was discovered 06/25/2017. The weakness was presented 07/17/2017 by Ariel Zelivansky (oss-sec). The advisory is shared for download at openwall.com. This vulnerability is traded as CVE-2017-9669 since 06/15/2017. It is possible to launch the attack remotely. The exploitation doesn't require any form of authentication. Successful exploitation requires user interaction by the victim. There are known technical details, but no exploit is available.

The vulnerability was handled as a non-public zero-day exploit for at least 22 days. During that time the estimated underground price was around $0-$5k. The commercial vulnerability scanner Qualys is able to test this issue with plugin 370591 (Alpine Linux Alpine Package Manager (APK) Remote Code Execution Vulnerabilities).

There is no information about possible countermeasures known. It may be suggested to replace the affected object with an alternative product.

The vulnerability is also documented in the vulnerability database at SecurityFocus (BID 99340†). See VDB-103729 for similar entry. VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.

Productinfo

Name

• apk

Version

• 2.5.0_rc1

CPE 2.3info

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CPE 2.2info

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Entryinfo

VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.

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