Catastrophic Backtracking Vulnerability in Python
Summary
CVE-2018-1060: python before versions 2.7.15, 3.4.9, 3.5.6rc1, 3.6.5rc1 and 3.7.0 is vulnerable to catastrophic backtracking in pop3lib's apop() method. Affects python2 across 2 version ranges.
< 2.7.15-r0
< ca079a3ea30098aff3197c559a0e32d42dda6d84
Fixed in 2.7.15-r0. How to fix ↓
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Background
Python is a popular programming language known for its simplicity and versatility. It is widely used for various purposes, including web development, data analysis, and scripting. The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2018-1060, affects versions of Python before 2.7.15, 3.4.9, 3.5.6rc1, 3.6.5rc1, and 3.7.0. This vulnerability specifically targets the 'pop3lib' module's 'apop()' method, which is used for authentication in POP3 email protocols. The vulnerability allows an attacker to exploit the application by causing a denial of service (DoS) attack.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises from a flaw in the 'apop()' method of the 'pop3lib' module in Python. It is categorized as a catastrophic backtracking vulnerability. An attacker can exploit this flaw by sending specially crafted requests to the application, causing the 'apop()' method to enter a state of catastrophic backtracking. This can lead to excessive CPU usage and ultimately result in a denial of service. The impact of this vulnerability can be severe, as it can disrupt the availability of the affected application.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
2.7.15-r0
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
As a workaround, users can disable the 'apop()' method in the 'pop3lib' module. This can be achieved by modifying the code to remove any references to the 'apop()' method or by using alternative authentication methods. However, it is important to note that this workaround may impact the functionality of the application and should only be considered if updating Python is not feasible.
Conclusion
The catastrophic backtracking vulnerability in Python's 'pop3lib' module can be mitigated by updating Python to a fixed version. It is crucial to regularly update Python and other software dependencies to ensure the latest security patches are applied. For further assistance and support in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The vulnerability can lead to a denial of service (DoS) attack, causing the affected application to become unresponsive and unavailable.
Versions of Python before 2.7.15, 3.4.9, 3.5.6rc1, 3.6.5rc1, and 3.7.0 are vulnerable to this issue.
To fix the vulnerability, update Python to version 2.7.15, 3.4.9, 3.5.6rc1, 3.6.5rc1, or 3.7.0, or later.
A workaround is to disable the 'apop()' method in the 'pop3lib' module or use alternative authentication methods.
There is no known exploit available for this vulnerability at the moment.
References
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