CVE-2017-7226 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2017-7226, a vulnerability in the Binary File Descriptor library of GNU Binutils 2.28, leading to heap-based buffer over-read and potential information disclosure.
A vulnerability has been identified in the pe_ILF_object_p function of the Binary File Descriptor library, also known as libbfd, distributed as part of GNU Binutils 2.28. This vulnerability allows for a heap-based buffer over-read of 4049 bytes due to the use of the strlen function instead of strnlen, potentially leading to crashes in utilities like addr2line, size, and strings, and disclosure of sensitive information.
Understanding CVE-2017-7226
The pe_ILF_object_p function in the Binary File Descriptor (BFD) library is vulnerable to a heap-based buffer over-read due to incorrect function usage.
What is CVE-2017-7226?
The vulnerability in the Binary File Descriptor library allows for a heap-based buffer over-read of 4049 bytes, potentially leading to crashes in various utilities and disclosure of sensitive information.
The Impact of CVE-2017-7226
The vulnerability can result in crashes in utilities like addr2line, size, and strings, and could potentially lead to the disclosure of sensitive information.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-7226
The technical details of the vulnerability in the Binary File Descriptor library.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises from the incorrect use of the strlen function instead of strnlen, leading to a heap-based buffer over-read of 4049 bytes.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Not applicable
- Vendor: Not applicable
- Versions: Not applicable
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by triggering the heap-based buffer over-read through specific actions.
Mitigation and Prevention
Steps to mitigate and prevent the CVE-2017-7226 vulnerability.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply patches or updates provided by the software vendor.
- Monitor vendor communications for security advisories.
- Consider limiting access to affected utilities.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and libraries to the latest versions.
- Conduct security assessments and audits to identify vulnerabilities.
- Implement secure coding practices to prevent similar issues.
Patching and Updates
- Check for patches or updates released by GNU Binutils to address the vulnerability.