Memory Consumption Vulnerability in GNU Binutils: CVE-2022-48063
Summary
UBUNTU-CVE-2022-48063: GNU Binutils before 2.40 was discovered to contain an excessive memory consumption vulnerability via the function load_separate_debug_files at dwarf2.c. Affects binutils versions < 2.24-5ubuntu14.2+esm5. Fixed in 2.24-5ubuntu14.2+esm5. How to fix ↓
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Background
GNU Binutils is a collection of binary tools essential for managing binary files, including object files, archives, and executable files. It provides functionalities such as linking, assembling, and debugging. This package is widely used in software development and system programming. The vulnerability CVE-2022-48063 affects versions of Binutils prior to 2.40, allowing attackers to exploit excessive memory consumption through crafted ELF files.
Vulnerability Detail
CVE-2022-48063 is a vulnerability discovered in GNU Binutils that allows an attacker to cause excessive memory consumption by supplying a specially crafted ELF file. This vulnerability arises from the function load_separate_debug_files in dwarf2.c, which can lead to a denial-of-service (DoS) attack. The potential ramifications include system instability and resource exhaustion, making the system unresponsive to legitimate requests.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
2.24-5ubuntu14.2+esm5
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade binutilsTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, avoid processing untrusted ELF files until the package is updated. This can help prevent potential exploitation of the vulnerability while a permanent fix is being applied.
Conclusion
CVE-2022-48063 is a significant vulnerability in GNU Binutils that can lead to excessive memory consumption and potential denial-of-service attacks. Users are advised to update their Binutils package to the latest version to mitigate this risk. Additionally, using tools like Vulert can help monitor and alert for such vulnerabilities in real-time.
See every vulnerability recorded for binutils →
FAQ
CVE-2022-48063 is a vulnerability in GNU Binutils that allows for excessive memory consumption through crafted ELF files.
The vulnerability can lead to denial-of-service attacks, causing the system to become unresponsive due to resource exhaustion.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without any signup.
The CVSS score for CVE-2022-48063 is 5.5, indicating a medium severity level.
Run the command 'sudo apt-get update && sudo apt-get install binutils' in your terminal to update to the latest patched version.
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