CVE-2017-8396 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2017-8396, a vulnerability in the libbfd library of GNU Binutils 2.28, potentially causing crashes in programs like objdump. Find mitigation steps and preventive measures here.
This CVE-2017-8396 article provides insights into a vulnerability in the libbfd library included in GNU Binutils 2.28, potentially leading to crashes in programs like objdump.
Understanding CVE-2017-8396
What is CVE-2017-8396?
The Binary File Descriptor (BFD) library, known as libbfd, in GNU Binutils 2.28 is susceptible to an invalid read of size 1 due to inadequate reloc offset range tests.
The Impact of CVE-2017-8396
The vulnerability can cause crashes in programs that analyze binary programs using the libbfd library, such as objdump.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-8396
Vulnerability Description
The libbfd library in GNU Binutils 2.28 allows an invalid read of size 1 because reloc offset range tests fail to detect small negative offsets.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Not applicable
- Vendor: Not applicable
- Versions: Not applicable
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability arises from the inability to identify small negative offsets smaller than the reloc field size, leading to crashes in programs utilizing the libbfd library.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply patches or updates provided by the software vendor.
- Monitor vendor advisories for any security alerts related to this vulnerability.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and libraries to the latest versions.
- Implement secure coding practices to minimize the impact of potential vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
Ensure timely installation of patches released by the software vendor to address the vulnerability.