Heap-Based Buffer Overflow in rdesktop

rdesktop Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

15/03/2019
N/A
Yes i
Critical
9.8

CVE-2018-20177: rdesktop versions up to and including v1.8.3 contain an Integer Overflow that leads to a Heap-Based Buffer Overflow in the function rdp_in_unistr() and results in memory corruption and possibly even a remote code executi... Affects rdesktop across 2 version ranges.

< 1.8.6-r0 < 4dca546d04321a610c1835010b5dad85163b65e1

Fixed in 1.8.6-r0. How to fix ↓

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Background

rdesktop is an open-source client for Windows Remote Desktop Services, allowing users to connect to a remote Windows desktop over a network connection. It provides a graphical interface for remote desktop sessions and supports various protocols. The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2018-20177, affects rdesktop versions up to and including v1.8.3. It is an Integer Overflow vulnerability that leads to a Heap-Based Buffer Overflow in the function rdp_in_unistr(). This vulnerability can result in memory corruption and potentially even remote code execution.

Vulnerability Detail

The Integer Overflow vulnerability in rdesktop's rdp_in_unistr() function allows an attacker to overflow a heap-based buffer. By exploiting this vulnerability, an attacker can corrupt memory and potentially execute arbitrary code on the target system. This can lead to a complete compromise of the system and unauthorized access to sensitive information. The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 9.8, indicating its high severity.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

1.8.6-r0

This is the first release that contains the fix.

sudo apk add --upgrade rdesktop

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Workaround

There is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is essential to update to the fixed version of rdesktop to mitigate the risk of exploitation.

Conclusion

The Heap-Based Buffer Overflow vulnerability in rdesktop can have severe consequences, including memory corruption and potential remote code execution. It is crucial for users to update their rdesktop installations to version 1.8.6-r0 or later to mitigate the risk of exploitation. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

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FAQ

rdesktop is an open-source client for Windows Remote Desktop Services that allows users to connect to a remote Windows desktop over a network connection.

The vulnerability can lead to memory corruption and potentially remote code execution, allowing an attacker to compromise the target system and gain unauthorized access.

The CVSS score of this vulnerability is 9.8, indicating its high severity.

To fix this vulnerability, update rdesktop to version 1.8.6-r0 or later.

No, there is no known workaround for this vulnerability. Updating to the fixed version is the recommended solution.

Related vulnerabilities

Recent vulnerabilities recorded for rdesktop.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

1.8.6-r0

This is the first release that contains the fix.

sudo apk add --upgrade rdesktop

Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →

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