Critical Memory Disclosure Vulnerability in curl Package
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2017-1000099: When asking to get a file from a file:// URL, libcurl provides a feature that outputs meta-data about the file using HTTP-like headers. Affects curl versions < 7.55.0-r0. Fixed in 7.55.0-r0. How to fix ↓
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Background
The curl package is a widely used command-line tool and library for transferring data with URLs. It supports various protocols including HTTP, HTTPS, FTP, and more, making it essential for web applications and services. This package is known for its versatility and ease of use, but it has been found to have a significant vulnerability that could expose sensitive data.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2017-1000099, arises when curl is tasked with retrieving a file from a file:// URL. In this scenario, curl outputs metadata about the file using HTTP-like headers. However, due to a coding error, it sends an incorrect buffer to the user, which may contain uninitialized memory data from the heap. If this memory area does not contain a zero byte, it could inadvertently display sensitive information, leading to potential data leaks. This vulnerability has a CVSS score of 6.5, indicating a moderate severity level.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
7.55.0-r0
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apk add --upgrade curlTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, avoid using curl to access file:// URLs until the package has been updated to the patched version. Alternatively, consider using other methods to access files that do not involve curl.
Conclusion
The curl package is an essential tool for data transfer, but it is crucial to address the CVE-2017-1000099 vulnerability to prevent potential data leaks. Updating to the patched version 7.55.0-r0 is necessary to secure your applications. Utilize tools like Vulert to monitor and manage vulnerabilities effectively.
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FAQ
CVE-2017-1000099 is a vulnerability in the curl package that can lead to the disclosure of sensitive data due to incorrect handling of memory buffers.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without requiring any signup.
The primary risk is the unintended disclosure of sensitive information from memory, which could be exploited by attackers to gain access to private data.
Yes, you can temporarily avoid using curl for file:// URLs until the package is updated to the patched version.
The CVSS score of this vulnerability is 6.5, indicating a moderate level of severity.
References
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