CVE-2018-18521 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

elfutils 0.174 has a vulnerability in the function arlib_add_symbols() that allows remote attackers to crash the application by exploiting a divide-by-zero issue in ELF files.

Understanding CVE-2018-18521

This CVE involves a denial-of-service vulnerability in elfutils 0.174 due to mishandling of zero sh_entsize in the arlib_add_symbols() function.

What is CVE-2018-18521?

CVE-2018-18521 is a vulnerability in elfutils 0.174 that enables remote attackers to cause a denial of service (application crash) by utilizing a crafted ELF file. The issue arises from divide-by-zero vulnerabilities in the arlib_add_symbols() function.

The Impact of CVE-2018-18521

The vulnerability can be exploited by remote attackers to crash applications using elfutils 0.174 by manipulating ELF files. This can lead to a denial of service.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-18521

elfutils 0.174 is affected by a vulnerability that allows remote attackers to exploit a divide-by-zero issue in the arlib_add_symbols() function.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in arlib_add_symbols() in arlib.c in elfutils 0.174 arises from mishandling zero sh_entsize, leading to a denial of service when processing crafted ELF files.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: elfutils
Vendor: N/A
Version: 0.174

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit the vulnerability by using a manipulated ELF file to trigger a divide-by-zero condition, causing the application to crash.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2018-18521, consider the following steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security updates provided by the vendor.
Avoid opening untrusted ELF files.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to mitigate known vulnerabilities.
Implement proper input validation to prevent exploitation of similar issues.

Patching and Updates

Refer to vendor advisories and security updates to apply patches promptly.