Heap-Based Buffer Overflow in GNU Binutils and Libiberty: CVE-2019-14250
Summary
UBUNTU-CVE-2019-14250: An issue was discovered in GNU libiberty, 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
GNU Binutils is a collection of binary tools essential for managing binary files, object files, and libraries. It includes tools like 'as' (the assembler) and 'ld' (the linker), which are crucial for software development. The libiberty library, part of Binutils, provides utility functions for various programming tasks. This vulnerability affects versions of Binutils and libiberty, specifically those that do not check for a zero shstrndx value, leading to potential security risks.
Vulnerability Detail
An issue was discovered in GNU libiberty, as distributed in GNU Binutils 2.32. The function simple_object_elf_match in simple-object-elf.c does not check for a zero shstrndx value, leading to an integer overflow and resultant heap-based buffer overflow. This vulnerability can be exploited to execute arbitrary code, potentially compromising the integrity and confidentiality of the system. The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 5.5, indicating a medium severity level.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
As a temporary workaround, you can avoid using the affected versions of Binutils and libiberty until they are updated. Consider using alternative tools for binary management that do not exhibit this vulnerability.
Conclusion
The vulnerability CVE-2019-14250 in GNU Binutils and libiberty poses a significant risk due to a heap-based buffer overflow. Users are strongly encouraged to update their packages to the latest patched versions to safeguard their systems. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help monitor for such vulnerabilities effectively.
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FAQ
CVE-2019-14250 is a vulnerability in GNU Binutils and libiberty that can lead to a heap-based buffer overflow due to improper handling of a zero shstrndx value.
You can use Vulert, which allows you to monitor and alert for open-source vulnerabilities in your software using just a manifest file like package-lock.json. Visit Vulert Scanner to check your application without any signup.
Exploitation of this vulnerability may allow attackers to execute arbitrary code, leading to unauthorized access and potential data breaches.
Yes, patched versions of Binutils and libiberty are available. Users should update to the latest versions to mitigate the risk.
If immediate updates are not possible, consider using alternative tools or limiting the use of the affected packages until they can be updated.
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