Moderate Vulnerability in Python 3.11: ReDoS via Excessive Backtracking
Summary
ALSA-2024:8838: Moderate: python3.11 security update. Affects python3.11 versions < 3.11.10-1.el8_10. Fixed in 3.11.10-1.el8_10. How to fix ↓
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Background
Python 3.11 is an interpreted, interactive, object-oriented programming language widely used for various applications, including web development, data analysis, artificial intelligence, and more. It features a rich set of libraries and frameworks, making it a popular choice among developers. However, Python 3.11 is susceptible to a security vulnerability in the tarfile module, which can lead to denial-of-service attacks through regular expression denial of service (ReDoS) due to excessive backtracking while parsing header values.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-6232 allows attackers to exploit the tarfile module in Python 3.11 by crafting specific input that causes excessive backtracking in regular expressions. This can lead to significant performance degradation, potentially rendering the application unresponsive. The vulnerability arises from the way the tarfile module handles header values, making it susceptible to specially crafted tar files that can trigger this excessive backtracking.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
3.11.10-1.el8_10
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo dnf update python3.11Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, avoid processing untrusted tar files or implement input validation to filter out potentially malicious inputs until the package is updated.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in Python 3.11's tarfile module poses a moderate risk due to the potential for denial-of-service attacks. It is crucial for users to update to the patched version to safeguard their applications. Implementing workarounds and utilizing tools like Vulert can help monitor and manage vulnerabilities effectively.
See every vulnerability recorded for python3.11 →
FAQ
CVE-2024-6232 is a security vulnerability in Python 3.11's tarfile module that allows for denial-of-service attacks through excessive backtracking in regular expressions.
You can check if your application is affected by using Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. Visit Vulert Scanner to analyze your manifest file.
Failing to update Python 3.11 may leave your application vulnerable to denial-of-service attacks, which can disrupt service availability and impact user experience.
Yes, you can mitigate the risk by avoiding the processing of untrusted tar files and implementing input validation to filter out potentially harmful inputs.
For more details, refer to the CVE page associated with CVE-2024-6232, which provides in-depth information about the vulnerability and its implications.
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