CVE-2017-8393 : Security Advisory and Response

The GNU Binutils version 2.28 contains a vulnerability in the Binary File Descriptor (BFD) library, leading to a global buffer over-read error. This flaw affects the objcopy and strip tools, causing crashes in binary programs analyzed with the libbfd library.

Understanding CVE-2017-8393

This CVE entry highlights a critical vulnerability in the GNU Binutils version 2.28, specifically in the libbfd library, impacting the functionality of objcopy and strip tools.

What is CVE-2017-8393?

The vulnerability in the libbfd library of GNU Binutils version 2.28 triggers a global buffer over-read error due to an incorrect assumption in the code used by objcopy and strip tools. The assumption is related to the naming convention of certain sections within binary programs.

The Impact of CVE-2017-8393

The vulnerability can lead to crashes in binary programs that are being analyzed using the libbfd library with objcopy and strip tools. This can potentially disrupt critical processes and operations relying on these tools.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-8393

The technical aspects of the CVE-2017-8393 vulnerability provide insights into its nature and implications.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw arises from an incorrect assumption in the code used by objcopy and strip tools, expecting specific section names within binary programs, which can result in a global buffer over-read error.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected System: GNU Binutils version 2.28
Affected Tools: objcopy and strip
Versions: All versions of GNU Binutils 2.28

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability is exploited when binary programs are analyzed using the libbfd library with objcopy and strip tools, triggering the global buffer over-read error and subsequent crashes.

Mitigation and Prevention

Addressing CVE-2017-8393 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices to enhance system resilience.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update to a patched version of GNU Binutils to mitigate the vulnerability.
Avoid using objcopy and strip tools on untrusted or unknown binary programs.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor for security advisories and updates related to GNU Binutils.
Implement secure coding practices to prevent similar buffer over-read errors in custom code.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by GNU Binutils to fix the vulnerability.
Stay informed about security patches and updates released by the software vendor.