CVE-2020-16269 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

radare2 4.5.0 misparses DWARF information in executable files, causing a segmentation fault in parse_typedef in type_dwarf.c via a malformed DW_AT_name in the .debug_info section.

Understanding CVE-2020-16269

This CVE involves a vulnerability in radare2 version 4.5.0 that leads to a segmentation fault due to misparsing DWARF information in executable files.

What is CVE-2020-16269?

CVE-2020-16269 is a vulnerability in radare2 4.5.0 that occurs when the software misinterprets DWARF information in executable files, resulting in a segmentation fault.

The Impact of CVE-2020-16269

The vulnerability can be exploited by an attacker to cause a segmentation fault, potentially leading to a denial of service or other security issues.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-16269

This section provides more in-depth technical information about the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises from radare2 4.5.0 misparsing DWARF information in executable files, specifically in the parse_typedef function in type_dwarf.c, triggered by a malformed DW_AT_name in the .debug_info section.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Version: radare2 4.5.0
Systems: Any system running radare2 4.5.0 is vulnerable to this issue.

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by crafting a specially designed executable file with a malformed DW_AT_name in the .debug_info section, leading to a segmentation fault.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-16269 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update radare2 to a patched version or apply vendor-supplied fixes.
Avoid executing untrusted executable files.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and apply security patches.
Conduct security audits and code reviews to identify and address vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Check for updates from the radare2 project or relevant vendors to obtain patched versions addressing the vulnerability.