CVE-2017-1082 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2017-1082, a vulnerability in FreeBSD qsort algorithm in versions 11.x before 11.1-RELEASE and 10.x before 10.4-RELEASE, potentially leading to stack overflow and system crashes. Find mitigation steps and patching details.
CVE-2017-1082 pertains to a vulnerability in the qsort algorithm in FreeBSD versions 11.x before 11.1-RELEASE and 10.x before 10.4-RELEASE, potentially leading to a stack overflow.
Understanding CVE-2017-1082
This CVE involves a deterministic recursion pattern in the qsort algorithm in specific FreeBSD versions, which can result in excessive stack usage and potential overflow.
What is CVE-2017-1082?
The qsort algorithm in FreeBSD versions 11.x before 11.1-RELEASE and 10.x before 10.4-RELEASE exhibits a deterministic recursion pattern. When provided with a particular type of input, it can lead to excessive system stack usage and a potential overflow, causing applications using qsort on extensive datasets to crash.
The Impact of CVE-2017-1082
The vulnerability can have the following impacts:
- Excessive system stack usage
- Potential stack overflow
- Application crashes when processing large datasets
Technical Details of CVE-2017-1082
This section provides detailed technical insights into the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The qsort algorithm in FreeBSD versions 11.x before 11.1-RELEASE and 10.x before 10.4-RELEASE follows a deterministic recursion pattern. Providing a specific input type can lead to excessive stack usage and potential overflow, resulting in application crashes.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected Product: FreeBSD
- Affected Versions: 11.x before 11.1-RELEASE, 10.x before 10.4-RELEASE
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability is exploited by providing a specific type of input to the qsort algorithm, triggering the deterministic recursion pattern that leads to excessive stack usage and potential overflow.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2017-1082 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply relevant patches provided by FreeBSD promptly
- Monitor system behavior for any signs of stack overflow
- Restrict access to vulnerable systems
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch FreeBSD systems
- Implement secure coding practices to prevent stack overflow vulnerabilities
- Conduct security audits and code reviews to identify and mitigate similar issues
Patching and Updates
FreeBSD has released patches to address the vulnerability. It is crucial to apply these patches promptly to mitigate the risk of stack overflow and potential system crashes.