CVE-2017-8397 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2017-8397, a vulnerability in the BFD library of GNU Binutils 2.28, allowing unintended read and write operations in corrupted binaries, potentially leading to program crashes. Find mitigation steps and affected systems here.
The Binary File Descriptor (BFD) library in GNU Binutils 2.28 is vulnerable to a security issue due to handling corrupted binaries with reloc(s) containing negative addresses, leading to unintended read and write operations.
Understanding CVE-2017-8397
This CVE entry highlights a vulnerability in the BFD library that can cause crashes in programs using the library for binary analysis.
What is CVE-2017-8397?
The vulnerability in the BFD library allows for an invalid read and write of size 1 when processing corrupt binaries with reloc(s) containing negative addresses. This flaw can result in program crashes, particularly in tools like objdump that rely on the libbfd library.
The Impact of CVE-2017-8397
The security issue poses a risk to systems utilizing GNU Binutils 2.28 and programs that analyze binary files using the libbfd library. The vulnerability can lead to crashes and potentially be exploited by malicious actors to disrupt operations.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-8397
This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE, including the vulnerability description, affected systems, and exploitation mechanism.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in the BFD library allows for an unintended read and write operation of size 1 when processing corrupted binaries with reloc(s) containing negative addresses. This can lead to program crashes.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Not applicable
- Vendor: Not applicable
- Versions: GNU Binutils 2.28
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability is triggered when handling corrupted binaries with reloc(s) that have negative addresses, causing unintended read and write operations of size 1. This can result in crashes in programs using the libbfd library.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2017-8397, immediate steps and long-term security practices are essential.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update GNU Binutils to a non-vulnerable version if available.
- Limit exposure of systems running programs that rely on the libbfd library.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly monitor for updates and security advisories related to GNU Binutils and the libbfd library.
- Implement secure coding practices to mitigate potential vulnerabilities in binary analysis tools.
Patching and Updates
- Apply patches provided by the software vendor to fix the vulnerability.