Heap-Based Buffer Over-Read in Binutils: CVE-2019-12972 Vulnerability
Summary
UBUNTU-CVE-2019-12972: An issue was discovered in the Binary File Descriptor (BFD) library (aka libbfd), as distributed in GNU Binutils 2.32. Affects binutils versions 2.23.52.20130913-0ubuntu1 – 2.24-5ubuntu3.1. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
Binutils is a collection of binary tools that are essential for the development and management of binary files in various programming environments. It includes tools for assembling, linking, and manipulating binary files, making it a critical component for developers working with low-level programming languages. The vulnerability CVE-2019-12972 affects the Binary File Descriptor (BFD) library within Binutils, specifically in how it handles certain ELF sections, potentially leading to security risks.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises from a heap-based buffer over-read in the BFD library, specifically in the function _bfd_doprnt. This issue occurs due to improper handling of the e_shstrndx section of type SHT_GROUP, where a trailing '\0' character is omitted. As a result, an attacker could exploit this flaw to read sensitive information from memory, leading to potential data leaks or other malicious activities. The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 5.5, indicating a moderate severity level.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
As a temporary measure, users can avoid using the affected features of the Binutils package until the update is applied. It is advisable to monitor the system for any unusual behavior that may indicate exploitation attempts.
Conclusion
The CVE-2019-12972 vulnerability in the Binutils package poses a moderate risk due to a heap-based buffer over-read issue. Users are encouraged to update their Binutils installation to the latest patched version to mitigate potential security threats. Utilizing tools like Vulert can further enhance security by providing real-time vulnerability alerts.
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FAQ
CVE-2019-12972 is a vulnerability in the Binutils package that allows for a heap-based buffer over-read, potentially leading to information disclosure.
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The vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information in memory, which may be exploited by attackers for malicious purposes.
Yes, a patched version of Binutils is available. Users should update to version 2.30-21ubuntu1~18.04.3 or higher.
Vulert is a tool that monitors and alerts users in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities in software using a manifest file like package-lock.json. It helps developers maintain secure applications.
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