Denial of Service Vulnerability in Python Packages: CVE-2019-5010
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2019-5010: An exploitable denial-of-service vulnerability exists in the X509 certificate parser of Python.org Python 2.7.11 / 3.6.6. Affects python2 versions < 2.7.15-r3. Fixed in 2.7.15-r3. How to fix ↓
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Background
Python is a widely-used high-level programming language known for its readability and versatility. It supports multiple programming paradigms and is commonly used for web development, data analysis, artificial intelligence, and more. The vulnerability in question affects Python 2.7.11 and 3.6.6, specifically in the X509 certificate parser, which is crucial for handling secure communications over TLS. This vulnerability can lead to denial of service, making it critical for users to address it promptly.
Vulnerability Detail
An exploitable denial-of-service vulnerability exists in the X509 certificate parser of Python.org Python 2.7.11 / 3.6.6. A specially crafted X509 certificate can cause a NULL pointer dereference, resulting in a denial of service. An attacker can initiate or accept TLS connections using crafted certificates to trigger this vulnerability. The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 7.5, indicating a high severity level, which could lead to significant disruptions in service availability.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
2.7.15-r3
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apk add --upgrade python2Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
If immediate patching is not possible, consider restricting the use of TLS connections to trusted certificates only, thereby mitigating the risk of exploitation until the package can be updated.
Conclusion
The CVE-2019-5010 vulnerability poses a significant risk to applications using affected versions of Python. It is crucial for users to update their packages to the patched versions to ensure the security and availability of their applications. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help monitor and alert for such vulnerabilities in real-time.
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FAQ
CVE-2019-5010 is a denial-of-service vulnerability in the X509 certificate parser of Python that can be exploited using specially crafted certificates.
You can use Vulert's playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without requiring any signup.
Exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to a denial of service, causing applications to crash or become unresponsive when processing malicious X509 certificates.
The CVSS score of this vulnerability is 7.5, indicating a high severity level.
You can mitigate the risk by restricting TLS connections to trusted certificates until you can update to the patched versions.
References
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