CVE-2023-4039

**DISPUTED**A failure in the -fstack-protector feature in GCC-based toolchains that target AArch64 allows an attacker to exploit an existing buffer overflow in dynamically-sized local variables in your application without this being detected. This stack-protector failure only applies to C99-style dynamically-sized local variables or those created using alloca(). The stack-protector operates as intended for statically-sized local variables. The default behavior when the stack-protector detects an overflow is to terminate your application, resulting in controlled loss of availability. An attacker who can exploit a buffer overflow without triggering the stack-protector might be able to change program flow control to cause an uncontrolled loss of availability or to go further and affect confidentiality or integrity. NOTE: The GCC project argues that this is a missed hardening bug and not a vulnerability by itself.

• CWE-693

• https://developer.arm.com/Arm%20Security%20Center/GCC%20Stack%20Protector%20Vulnerability%20AArch64Exploit, Patch, Third Party Advisory
• https://github.com/metaredteam/external-disclosures/security/advisories/GHSA-x7ch-h5rf-w2mfExploit, Patch, Third Party Advisory
• https://developer.arm.com/Arm%20Security%20Center/GCC%20Stack%20Protector%20Vulnerability%20AArch64Exploit, Patch, Third Party Advisory
• https://github.com/metaredteam/external-disclosures/security/advisories/GHSA-x7ch-h5rf-w2mfExploit, Patch, Third Party Advisory

Published

Sep 13, 2023

Last Modified

Jun 23, 2026

Status

Modified