NULL Pointer Dereference in ELFIO Library

Executive Summary

CVE-2026-110659 is a NULL pointer dereference vulnerability in the ELFIO library (versions up to 3.12 and 3.14) affecting the relocation_section_accessor get_entry() function. It occurs when a crafted ELF file contains a relocation section (SHT_REL or SHT_RELA) with an invalid sh_link index pointing to a non-existent section. This causes find_hash_section() to dereference a null pointer, crashing the application via a denial of service.

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Detection Guidance

To detect this vulnerability, inspect ELF files processed by applications using ELFIO library versions up to 3.12. Check for relocation sections (SHT_REL or SHT_RELA) with invalid sh_link indices. Use tools like readelf to examine ELF files for malformed relocation sections. Example command: readelf -r <elf_file> to list relocation entries and verify sh_link validity.

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Impact Analysis

This vulnerability allows attackers to crash applications processing ELF files with ELFIO by supplying a maliciously crafted file. The crash occurs during symbol resolution in relocation entries, leading to denial of service. Any software using ELFIO to handle ELF files with relocation sections is potentially affected.

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Compliance Impact

This vulnerability does not directly affect compliance with GDPR or HIPAA as it is a technical flaw in the ELFIO library causing denial of service via crafted ELF files. However, if exploited in software handling sensitive data, it could indirectly impact compliance by disrupting services or causing data processing failures.

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Mitigation Strategies

Immediately update ELFIO library to the latest version beyond 3.12. If updating is not possible, restrict access to applications using ELFIO or implement input validation for ELF files. Monitor applications for crashes during ELF file processing as a potential indicator of exploitation.

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