CVE-2017-15024 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2017-15024, a denial of service vulnerability in the BFD library of GNU Binutils version 2.29. Find out how remote attackers can exploit this issue and steps to mitigate it.
A denial of service vulnerability exists in the find_abstract_instance_name function in the dwarf2.c file within the Binary File Descriptor (BFD) library, also known as libbfd. This vulnerability is present in GNU Binutils version 2.29 and can be exploited remotely by an attacker through a specially crafted ELF file. The exploit triggers infinite recursion, resulting in an application crash.
Understanding CVE-2017-15024
This CVE-2017-15024 involves a denial of service vulnerability in the BFD library affecting GNU Binutils version 2.29.
What is CVE-2017-15024?
The vulnerability in the find_abstract_instance_name function in the dwarf2.c file within the BFD library allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service by triggering infinite recursion through a crafted ELF file.
The Impact of CVE-2017-15024
- Attackers can exploit this vulnerability remotely to crash applications by causing infinite recursion.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-15024
This section provides technical details about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The find_abstract_instance_name function in dwarf2.c in the BFD library allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (infinite recursion and application crash) via a crafted ELF file.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected System: GNU Binutils version 2.29
- Affected Component: BFD library
- Affected Function: find_abstract_instance_name
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attackers exploit the vulnerability by crafting a malicious ELF file that triggers infinite recursion in the find_abstract_instance_name function.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protect your systems from CVE-2017-15024 with the following steps:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply vendor patches or updates to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Monitor security advisories for any new information or patches related to this CVE.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and libraries to the latest versions to prevent known vulnerabilities.
- Implement network security measures to detect and block malicious ELF files.
Patching and Updates
- Install the latest updates or patches provided by GNU Binutils to address the vulnerability.