CVE-2023-24056 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE record was published by MITRE on January 22, 2023. It addresses a vulnerability in pkgconf through version 1.9.3 that can lead to unbounded string expansion due to variable duplication in libpkgconf/tuple.c:pkgconf_tuple_parse. The impact of this vulnerability can cause a .pc file containing a few hundred bytes to expand to one billion bytes.

Understanding CVE-2023-24056

This section provides an overview of what CVE-2023-24056 entails.

What is CVE-2023-24056?

CVE-2023-24056 is a vulnerability in pkgconf that allows for unbounded string expansion through variable duplication, specifically in the pkgconf_tuple_parse function in libpkgconf/tuple.c.

The Impact of CVE-2023-24056

The impact of this vulnerability is significant as it can lead to a severe increase in file size, causing a .pc file to expand exponentially, potentially leading to resource exhaustion and system instability.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-24056

Delving deeper into the technical aspects of CVE-2023-24056.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from incorrect checks in the libpkgconf/tuple.c file, allowing for variable duplication and unbounded string expansion, leading to potential resource exhaustion.

Affected Systems and Versions

This vulnerability affects pkgconf up to version 1.9.3, making systems running this version susceptible to the unbounded string expansion issue.

Exploitation Mechanism

By crafting a malicious .pc file with duplicated variables, an attacker can trigger the unbounded string expansion issue, causing the file to grow exponentially in size.

Mitigation and Prevention

Exploring measures to mitigate and prevent the risks associated with CVE-2023-24056.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should update pkgconf to a patched version that addresses the vulnerability.
Monitor system resources for any unusual file expansion that could indicate exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement regular security patches and updates for all software components.
Conduct security audits to identify and mitigate potential vulnerabilities proactively.

Patching and Updates

It is crucial to apply patches released by pkgconf promptly to eliminate the unbounded string expansion vulnerability.
Stay informed about security advisories and updates related to pkgconf to ensure the system is protected against known vulnerabilities.