CVE-2018-17359 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2018-17359, a flaw in GNU Binutils 2.31 BFD library allowing denial of service attacks via crafted ELF files. Find mitigation steps and patching details.
A problem was found in the GNU Binutils 2.31 version of the Binary File Descriptor (BFD) library, leading to a denial of service vulnerability by exploiting an invalid memory access.
Understanding CVE-2018-17359
What is CVE-2018-17359?
This CVE refers to a flaw in the bfd_zalloc function within the opncls.c file of the libbfd library in GNU Binutils 2.31, allowing attackers to crash applications through a specially crafted ELF file.
The Impact of CVE-2018-17359
Exploiting this vulnerability could result in a denial of service (application crash) due to an invalid memory access.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-17359
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability exists in the bfd_zalloc function in the opncls.c file of the Binary File Descriptor (BFD) library, enabling attackers to trigger a denial of service by using a malicious ELF file.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: n/a
- Vendor: n/a
- Version: 2.31
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting a malicious ELF file to trigger an invalid memory access, leading to a denial of service.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply patches provided by the vendor promptly.
- Monitor vendor advisories for updates and security patches.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and libraries to the latest versions.
- Implement proper input validation mechanisms to prevent malformed files from causing issues.
- Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that Binutils and related libraries are updated to versions that contain fixes for this vulnerability.