Heap-Based Buffer Overflow in ICU Package: CVE-2020-10531
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2020-10531: An issue was discovered in International Components for Unicode (ICU) for C/C++ through 66.1. Affects icu versions < 64.2-r1. Fixed in 64.2-r1. How to fix ↓
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Background
The International Components for Unicode (ICU) is a set of C/C++ and Java libraries that provide robust and full-featured Unicode and Globalization support. ICU is widely used in applications that require internationalization, allowing developers to handle text in various languages and formats. However, a critical vulnerability has been identified in ICU versions prior to 66.1, which could lead to severe security issues.
Vulnerability Detail
An integer overflow in the UnicodeString::doAppend() function located in common/unistr.cpp can lead to a heap-based buffer overflow. This vulnerability arises from improper handling of string operations, allowing attackers to exploit the overflow to execute arbitrary code or crash the application. The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 8.8, indicating a high severity level that could lead to significant impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
64.2-r1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apk add --upgrade icuTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
If immediate upgrading is not feasible, consider implementing input validation and sanitization to reduce the risk of exploitation. Additionally, avoid using the affected functions until the package is updated.
Conclusion
The CVE-2020-10531 vulnerability in the ICU package poses a significant risk due to a heap-based buffer overflow caused by an integer overflow. It is crucial to update to the patched versions to ensure the security of applications utilizing ICU. Regular monitoring and vulnerability management practices, such as using tools like Vulert, can help maintain a secure software environment.
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FAQ
CVE-2020-10531 is a vulnerability in the ICU package that can lead to a heap-based buffer overflow due to an integer overflow in the UnicodeString::doAppend() function.
You can use Vulert, which monitors open-source vulnerabilities in your software using a manifest file like package-lock.json. You can check your application for vulnerabilities at Vulert Scanner without needing to sign up.
The vulnerability can lead to arbitrary code execution, application crashes, and potential data breaches, affecting the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the application.
ICU versions prior to 66.1 are affected by this vulnerability. Specific patched versions include 64.2-r1 for Alpine v3.10 and v3.11, and 65.1-r1 for Alpine v3.12 and above.
You can update the ICU package on Alpine Linux using the command: 'apk add icu=65.1-r1' for versions 3.12 and above, or 'apk add icu=64.2-r1' for versions 3.10 and 3.11.
References
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