GNU Binutils load_specific_debug_section Integer Overflow Vulnerability [CVE-2018-20671]
CVE Number – CVE-2018-20671
A vulnerability in the load_specific_debug_section function in GNU Binutils could allow a local attacker to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (DoS) condition on a targeted system.The vulnerability is due to insufficient validation of user-supplied input by the load_specific_debug_section function, as defined in the objdump.c source code file of the affected software. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by executing the objdump command to cause an integer overflow condition, which could trigger a heap-based buffer overflow condition. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to execute arbitrary code or cause a DoS condition.Proof-of-concept (PoC) code that demonstrates an exploit of this vulnerability is publicly available.The vendor has confirmed the vulnerability and released a software patch.
Analysis
- To exploit this vulnerability, the attacker must have user-level access to the targeted system. This access requirement could reduce the likelihood of a successful exploit.
Safeguards
- Administrators are advised to apply the appropriate updates.Administrators are advised to allow only trusted users to access local systems.Administrators are advised to allow only privileged users to access administration or management systems.Administrators are advised to monitor critical systems.
Vendor Announcements
- The vendor has released a bug report at the following link: Bug 24005
Fixed Software
- The vendor has released a software patch at the following link: Fix a possible integer overflow problem when examining corrupt binaries using a 32-bit binutil
Duncan is a technology professional with over 20 years experience of working in various IT roles. He has a interest in cyber security, and has a wide range of other skills in radio, electronics and telecommunications.