CVE-2018-20651 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2018-20651, a vulnerability in the Binary File Descriptor (BFD) library, leading to a remote denial of service. Find out affected versions and mitigation steps.
The Binary File Descriptor (BFD) library, also known as libbfd, version 2.31.1, contains a vulnerability in the elf_link_add_object_symbols function in elflink.c. This vulnerability involves a NULL pointer dereference and is triggered when processing a specifically crafted ET_DYN format ELF file that does not have any program headers. Exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to a remote denial of service, as demonstrated by the ld tool.
Understanding CVE-2018-20651
This CVE entry describes a vulnerability in the Binary File Descriptor (BFD) library, affecting version 2.31.1.
What is CVE-2018-20651?
CVE-2018-20651 is a vulnerability in the elf_link_add_object_symbols function in the Binary File Descriptor (BFD) library, leading to a NULL pointer dereference when processing a specially crafted ELF file.
The Impact of CVE-2018-20651
The exploitation of this vulnerability can result in a remote denial of service attack, potentially triggered by processing malicious ELF files.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-20651
This section provides more in-depth technical details about the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability involves a NULL pointer dereference in the elf_link_add_object_symbols function in the Binary File Descriptor (BFD) library, specifically in the elflink.c file.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Not applicable
- Vendor: Not applicable
- Version: 2.31.1
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability is triggered by processing a specially crafted ET_DYN format ELF file that lacks program headers, leading to the NULL pointer dereference.
Mitigation and Prevention
Mitigation strategies and steps to prevent exploitation of CVE-2018-20651.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply vendor patches or updates promptly.
- Avoid processing untrusted ELF files.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch software components.
- Implement robust security measures to prevent remote denial of service attacks.
Patching and Updates
- Check for and apply patches provided by the software vendor.