Heap-Based Buffer Over-Read in elfutils - CVE-2018-16062
Summary
CVE-2018-16062: dwarf_getaranges in dwarf_getaranges.c in libdw in elfutils before 2018-08-18 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (heap-based buffer over-read) via a crafted file. Affects elfutils across 2 version ranges.
< 0.175-1
< 52b6b2f1f49e7385527e9f311f248092be0c0b61
Fixed in 0.175-1. How to fix ↓
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Background
elfutils is a collection of utilities and libraries for handling ELF (Executable and Linkable Format) files, primarily used in Unix-like operating systems. It provides tools for inspecting and manipulating ELF files, which are essential for the execution of binaries. The package is widely utilized in various applications and systems, making its security critical. The vulnerability CVE-2018-16062 affects elfutils versions prior to 0.175-1, allowing attackers to exploit a flaw in the dwarf_getaranges function, leading to potential denial of service.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability CVE-2018-16062 is a heap-based buffer over-read in the dwarf_getaranges function located in dwarf_getaranges.c within the libdw library of elfutils. This flaw allows remote attackers to craft malicious ELF files that, when processed by the affected library, can lead to a denial of service. The over-read can cause the application to read beyond the allocated buffer, potentially exposing sensitive information or crashing the application. The vulnerability was introduced in versions of elfutils before 0.175-1 and poses a significant risk to systems relying on this library for ELF file manipulation.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
0.175-1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade elfutilsTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
If updating is not immediately possible, consider restricting access to the application that utilizes elfutils or implementing input validation to prevent processing of untrusted ELF files. However, these are temporary measures and should not replace a proper update.
Conclusion
CVE-2018-16062 represents a significant vulnerability in the elfutils package, allowing for potential denial of service through a heap-based buffer over-read. It is crucial for users to update to the latest version to mitigate risks associated with this vulnerability. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help monitor and alert for such vulnerabilities in real-time.
See every vulnerability recorded for elfutils →
FAQ
CVE-2018-16062 is a vulnerability in the elfutils package that allows for a heap-based buffer over-read, potentially leading to denial of service.
You can use Vulert's playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without any signup.
Exploiting this vulnerability can lead to denial of service, where the application may crash or become unresponsive, impacting system availability.
Yes, you can restrict access to the application or validate inputs to prevent processing untrusted ELF files as a temporary workaround.
The CVSS score for CVE-2018-16062 is 5.5, indicating a moderate level of severity.
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