Critical Use-After-Free Vulnerability in Irssi Package
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2019-15717: Irssi 1.2.x before 1.2.2 has a use-after-free if the IRC server sends a double CAP. Affects irssi versions < 1.2.2-r0. Fixed in 1.2.2-r0. How to fix ↓
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Background
Irssi is a popular terminal-based IRC client that allows users to connect to IRC networks and chat with others. It is known for its extensibility and support for various protocols. However, a vulnerability has been identified in versions prior to 1.2.2, which can lead to severe security issues if exploited.
Vulnerability Detail
Irssi 1.2.x before 1.2.2 contains a critical use-after-free vulnerability that occurs when an IRC server sends a double CAP command. This flaw can lead to memory corruption, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code, potentially compromising the entire system. The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 9.8, indicating its high severity and the urgent need for remediation.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
1.2.2-r0
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apk add --upgrade irssiTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can avoid connecting to untrusted IRC servers that may exploit this vulnerability until the package is updated. Additionally, consider disabling CAP commands if they are not required for your usage.
Conclusion
The use-after-free vulnerability in the Irssi package poses a significant risk to users, with a high CVSS score indicating its severity. It is crucial to update to the patched version 1.2.2-r0 to mitigate this risk. Additionally, utilizing tools like Vulert can help monitor for such vulnerabilities in the future.
See every vulnerability recorded for irssi →
FAQ
A use-after-free vulnerability occurs when a program continues to use a memory reference after it has been freed, leading to potential memory corruption and exploitation.
You can check your version of Irssi by running 'irssi --version' in your terminal. If it is below 1.2.2, it is vulnerable.
Failure to fix this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, and complete system compromise.
Yes, you can use tools like Vulert, which monitors and alerts in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities using just a manifest file.
Yes, you can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without requiring an account.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for irssi.
