CVE-2018-6872 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2018-6872, a vulnerability in the Binary File Descriptor (BFD) library in GNU Binutils 2.30, enabling denial of service attacks through out-of-bounds reads and segmentation violations.
A vulnerability has been identified in the Binary File Descriptor (BFD) library, also known as libbfd, as included in GNU Binutils version 2.30. This vulnerability, found in the elf_parse_notes function in the elf.c file, enables attackers to trigger a denial of service attack by exploiting an out-of-bounds read and causing a segmentation violation. The issue arises when a note with a significant alignment is processed.
Understanding CVE-2018-6872
This CVE entry pertains to a vulnerability in the Binary File Descriptor (BFD) library within GNU Binutils version 2.30.
What is CVE-2018-6872?
The vulnerability in the elf_parse_notes function in the elf.c file of the libbfd library allows remote attackers to execute a denial of service attack through an out-of-bounds read and segmentation violation.
The Impact of CVE-2018-6872
The vulnerability can be exploited by attackers to cause a denial of service, potentially disrupting the affected system's normal operation.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-6872
This section provides technical details regarding the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The elf_parse_notes function in the Binary File Descriptor (BFD) library allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service via an out-of-bounds read and segmentation violation triggered by a note with a large alignment.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Not applicable
- Vendor: Not applicable
- Versions affected: Not applicable
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by processing a note with a significant alignment, leading to an out-of-bounds read and causing a segmentation violation.
Mitigation and Prevention
Mitigation strategies and preventive measures for CVE-2018-6872.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply security patches provided by the vendor promptly.
- Monitor vendor advisories and security mailing lists for updates.
- Implement network security measures to detect and block malicious activities.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and libraries to the latest versions.
- Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify vulnerabilities.
- Educate users and administrators about secure coding practices and awareness.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that the affected systems are patched with the latest updates and security fixes to mitigate the vulnerability.