Remote Code Execution Vulnerability in 7-Zip's Decompression Implementation

What is CVE-2024-11477?

CVE-2024-11477 represents a serious vulnerability found in the 7-Zip file archiving software, specifically within its implementation of Zstandard decompression. 7-Zip is widely used for creating and extracting compressed files across various platforms. This vulnerability enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected installations, which could have dire consequences for organizations relying on 7-Zip for data handling and file management. Exploitation of this vulnerability not only compromises system integrity but may also lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data and provide an entry point for further attacks.

Technical Details

The root cause of CVE-2024-11477 lies in an integer underflow condition during Zstandard decompression, resulting from inadequate validation of user-supplied data. This flaw allows an attacker to manipulate input data in such a way that it triggers an integer underflow, allowing the attacker to control memory write operations. This manipulation can lead to the execution of arbitrary code within the context of the affected application, effectively giving the attacker substantial control over the system.

Impact of the Vulnerability

1. Remote Code Execution: The most immediate impact of this vulnerability is the potential for remote code execution. Attackers can execute malicious code on vulnerable systems, leading to full system compromise.

2. Data Theft and Unauthorized Access: Successful exploitation can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive files and data. An attacker may leverage the compromised system to exfiltrate confidential information, posing significant risks to organizational privacy and security.

3. Propagation of Malware: The vulnerability provides a path for attackers to deploy malware or ransomware. Once they gain access to a system, they can utilize it as a launchpad for further attacks, potentially affecting interconnected systems and networks.

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