CVE-2016-0737: OpenStack Object Storage (Swift) Denial of Service
Summary
CVE-2016-0737: OpenStack Object Storage (Swift) allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service. Affects swift versions < 2.4.0. Fixed in 2.4.0. How to fix ↓
Also tracked for
- swift · Debian:11
The same CVE-2016-0737 is tracked separately for each ecosystem and vendor. Its fix information is the same; the package and affected versions differ.
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Background
OpenStack Object Storage (Swift) is a component of the OpenStack cloud computing platform that provides scalable and redundant object storage. It allows users to store and retrieve large amounts of unstructured data via a RESTful API. Swift is widely used for storing and serving static content, backups, and other data in cloud environments. However, prior to version 2.4.0, Swift had a vulnerability that could be exploited to cause a denial of service (DoS) attack.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability (CVE-2016-0737) in OpenStack Object Storage (Swift) arises from improper handling of client connections. Specifically, the software fails to properly close client connections, leading to a resource consumption issue on the proxy server. An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by sending a series of interrupted requests to a Large Object URL. This can result in the exhaustion of server resources, causing a DoS condition and rendering the service unavailable to legitimate users.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 2.38.3 as of 22 Oct 2026
pip install --upgrade "swift==2.38.3"Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the version below is the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.
If you need the minimum change
2.4.0
This is the first release that contains the fix.
pip install --upgrade "swift==2.4.0"Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
There is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is essential to apply the official fix by upgrading to Swift version 2.4.0 or later.
Conclusion
The vulnerability (CVE-2016-0737) in OpenStack Object Storage (Swift) allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (DoS) by exploiting improper handling of client connections. To mitigate this vulnerability, it is crucial to upgrade to Swift version 2.4.0 or later. There is no known workaround for this issue. For additional assistance and guidance, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
OpenStack Object Storage (Swift) is a scalable and redundant object storage system that allows users to store and retrieve large amounts of unstructured data via a RESTful API. It is commonly used for storing static content, backups, and other data in cloud environments.
A denial of service (DoS) attack is a malicious attempt to disrupt the normal functioning of a network, system, or service by overwhelming it with a flood of illegitimate requests or by exploiting vulnerabilities to exhaust system resources. In the case of this vulnerability, a DoS attack can be triggered by sending a series of interrupted requests to a Large Object URL in OpenStack Object Storage (Swift).
The vulnerability in OpenStack Object Storage (Swift) can lead to a denial of service (DoS) condition, rendering the service unavailable to legitimate users. This can result in loss of access to stored data, disruption of business operations, and potential financial losses.
You can use the Vulert Playground (https://vulert.com/scanner) to check if your version of Swift is affected by this vulnerability. Simply provide your Pipfile.lock, and Vulert will analyze it in real-time and alert you if any open-source vulnerabilities, including this one, are detected.
For further support on vulnerability remediation, you can reach out to info@devnack.com. Our team of experts can assist you in addressing the vulnerability and ensuring the security of your OpenStack Object Storage (Swift) deployment.
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