CVE-2018-20375:An issue in Tiny C Compiler (TinyCC) 0.9.27 allows an 8-byte out-of-bounds write during compilation of a crafted source file in the sym_pop function (tccgen.c), potentially leading to memory corruption.

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The vulnerability affects TinyCC version 0.9.27 where compiling a crafted source file can trigger an 8-byte out-of-bounds write in the sym_pop function located in tccgen.c. This memory corruption vulnerability arises during the code generation process when handling symbol operations. The issue was disclosed in 2018.

Overview

An 8-byte out-of-bounds write vulnerability exists in TinyCC 0.9.27 during compilation of crafted source code, caused by a flaw in the sym_pop function of tccgen.c. This memory corruption could lead to instability or potential exploitation depending on the execution context. The disclosure occurred in 2018, highlighting the need for updates or patches to mitigate risk when using this version.

Remediation

  • Upgrade to a TinyCC release that contains the fix. Check the upstream TinyCC repository or release notes for a patched version and update accordingly; recompile after upgrading.
  • If upgrading is not feasible, apply a patch to tccgen.c sym_pop to add proper bounds checks and prevent writes beyond allocated memory, then recompile and perform regression tests.
  • Isolate untrusted or user-supplied source code by running TinyCC inside a sandbox (e.g., container with restricted privileges, seccomp filters, and a read-only filesystem) to limit potential impact.
  • Validate builds with safety checks (e.g., use AddressSanitizer/MemorySanitizer during testing) and run targeted regression tests that cover code generation paths involving symbol handling.
  • Limit exposure of untrusted inputs to TinyCC in production environments and consider using a safer or more controlled compilation workflow for untrusted sources.

References

Industry ExposureMost to least
This section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.

  1. Accommodation & Food Services: Low
    Accommodation & Food Services
  2. Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services: Low
    Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
  3. Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting: Low
    Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
  4. Arts, Entertainment & Recreation: Low
    Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
  5. Construction: Low
    Construction
  6. Educational Services: Low
    Educational Services
  7. Finance and Insurance: Low
    Finance and Insurance
  8. Health Care & Social Assistance: Low
    Health Care & Social Assistance
  9. Information: Low
    Information
  10. Management of Companies & Enterprises: Low
    Management of Companies & Enterprises
  11. Manufacturing: Low
    Manufacturing
  12. Mining: Low
    Mining
  13. Other Services (except Public Administration): Low
    Other Services (except Public Administration)
  14. Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services: Low
    Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
  15. Public Administration: Low
    Public Administration
  16. Real Estate Rental & Leasing: Low
    Real Estate Rental & Leasing
  17. Retail Trade: Low
    Retail Trade
  18. Transportation & Warehousing: Low
    Transportation & Warehousing
  19. Utilities: Low
    Utilities
  20. Wholesale Trade: Low
    Wholesale Trade

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