[ GLSA 200412-07 ] file: Arbitrary code execution

[GLSA]

Gentoo Linux Security Advisory

Title: file: Arbitrary code execution (GLSA 200412-07)
Severity: normal
Exploitable: remote
Date: December 13, 2004
Updated: May 22, 2006
Bug(s): #72521
ID: 200412-07

Synopsis


The code for parsing ELF headers in file contains a flaw which may allow an
attacker to execute arbitrary code.


Background


file is a utility used to identify the type of a file.


Affected Packages

Package: sys-apps/file
Vulnerable: < 4.12
Unaffected: >= 4.12
Architectures: All supported architectures


Description


A possible stack overflow has been found in the ELF header parsing code
of file.


Impact


An attacker may be able to create a specially crafted ELF file which,
when processed with file, may allow the execution of arbitrary code.


Workaround


There is no known workaround at this time.


Resolution


All file users should upgrade to the latest version: