CVE-2017-12459 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2017-12459, a vulnerability in GNU Binutils 2.29 and earlier that allows remote attackers to trigger an out of bounds heap write, potentially leading to code execution. Find mitigation steps and prevention measures here.
A crafted mach-o file can cause an out of bounds heap write and potentially achieve code execution through the bfd_mach_o_read_symtab_strtab function in bfd/mach-o.c in the Binary File Descriptor (BFD) library (also known as libbfd) as distributed in GNU Binutils 2.29 and earlier.
Understanding CVE-2017-12459
The bfd_mach_o_read_symtab_strtab function in bfd/mach-o.c in the Binary File Descriptor (BFD) library (aka libbfd) allows remote attackers to cause an out of bounds heap write and possibly achieve code execution via a crafted mach-o file.
What is CVE-2017-12459?
The vulnerability in the Binary File Descriptor (BFD) library in GNU Binutils 2.29 and earlier can be exploited by a crafted mach-o file to trigger an out of bounds heap write, potentially leading to code execution.
The Impact of CVE-2017-12459
This vulnerability could allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on the targeted system by exploiting the out of bounds heap write issue in the BFD library.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-12459
The technical details of the CVE-2017-12459 vulnerability are as follows:
Vulnerability Description
- Type: Out of bounds heap write
- Component: bfd_mach_o_read_symtab_strtab function in BFD library
Affected Systems and Versions
- Systems: GNU Binutils 2.29 and earlier
- Versions: All versions prior to 2.29
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attack Vector: Crafted mach-o file
- Attack Impact: Remote code execution
Mitigation and Prevention
Taking immediate steps and implementing long-term security practices are crucial to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2017-12459.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update Binutils to version 2.29 or later
- Implement proper input validation mechanisms
- Monitor and restrict network traffic to prevent malicious file execution
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and libraries
- Conduct security assessments and code reviews
- Educate users and developers on secure coding practices
Patching and Updates
- Apply patches provided by the software vendor
- Stay informed about security advisories and updates from Binutils