CVE-2017-10686 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

NASM version 2.14rc0 contains multiple heap use after free vulnerabilities within the nasm tool, leading to a high risk of remote code execution.

Understanding CVE-2017-10686

What is CVE-2017-10686?

In Netwide Assembler (NASM) 2.14rc0, heap use after free vulnerabilities exist in the nasm tool due to memory allocation and deallocation issues, potentially allowing remote code execution attacks.

The Impact of CVE-2017-10686

These vulnerabilities significantly increase the risk of a remote code execution attack by causing various damages, such as corrupted linked lists, double free or corruption, and out-of-bounds writes.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-10686

Vulnerability Description

NASM version 2.14rc0 suffers from heap use after free vulnerabilities in the nasm tool, specifically in the token() and detoken() functions, posing a severe risk of exploitation.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Not applicable
Vendor: Not applicable
Version: Not applicable

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerabilities stem from improper memory management in the token() and detoken() functions, leading to reused heap memory and potential remote code execution.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update NASM to a patched version that addresses the heap use after free vulnerabilities.
Monitor security advisories for any new updates or patches related to NASM.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement secure coding practices to prevent memory-related vulnerabilities.
Conduct regular security audits and code reviews to identify and mitigate similar issues.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches and updates promptly to ensure the security of NASM and prevent exploitation of the heap use after free vulnerabilities.