CVE-2017-7611 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A crafted ELF file can cause a denial of service and lead to a heap-based buffer over-read and application crash in the check_symtab_shndx function within elfutils 0.168.

Understanding CVE-2017-7611

The check_symtab_shndx function in elflint.c in elfutils 0.168 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (heap-based buffer over-read and application crash) via a crafted ELF file.

What is CVE-2017-7611?

The vulnerability in elfutils 0.168 can be exploited by a specially crafted ELF file to trigger a denial of service condition and potentially crash the application.

The Impact of CVE-2017-7611

This vulnerability can lead to a denial of service, heap-based buffer over-read, and application crashes, posing a risk to the stability and security of affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-7611

Vulnerability Description

A crafted ELF file can exploit the check_symtab_shndx function in elflint.c of elfutils 0.168, resulting in a denial of service and heap-based buffer over-read.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Not applicable
Vendor: Not applicable
Version: 0.168

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability is exploited by manipulating the ELF file format to trigger the check_symtab_shndx function, causing the application to crash.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply patches or updates provided by the software vendor
Monitor vendor advisories for security patches
Implement file integrity checks to detect malicious modifications

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and libraries to the latest versions
Conduct security assessments and audits to identify vulnerabilities
Employ network and host-based intrusion detection systems

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security updates and patches to address the vulnerability in elfutils 0.168.