Denial of Service Vulnerability in Ruby Package - CVE-2017-14033
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2017-14033: The decode method in the OpenSSL::ASN1 module in Ruby before 2.2.8, 2.3.x before 2.3.5, and 2.4.x through 2.4.1 allows attackers to cause a denial of service (interpreter crash) via a crafted string. Affects ruby versions < 2.4.2-r0. Fixed in 2.4.2-r0. How to fix ↓
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Background
Ruby is a dynamic, open-source programming language with a focus on simplicity and productivity. It is widely used for web development, particularly with the Ruby on Rails framework. The Ruby package provides essential libraries and tools for developers. However, certain versions of Ruby are vulnerable to a denial of service attack due to a flaw in the OpenSSL::ASN1 module, which can lead to interpreter crashes when processing crafted strings.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2017-14033, exists in the decode method of the OpenSSL::ASN1 module in Ruby. This flaw allows attackers to exploit the method by providing specially crafted strings, which can cause the Ruby interpreter to crash, resulting in a denial of service. The vulnerability affects Ruby versions prior to 2.2.8, 2.3.x before 2.3.5, and 2.4.x through 2.4.1. The potential ramifications include service interruptions and the inability to process requests, which can severely impact applications relying on Ruby.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
2.4.2-r0
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apk add --upgrade rubyTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
If immediate patching is not feasible, consider implementing input validation to sanitize and restrict the types of strings processed by the decode method. This can help mitigate the risk of denial of service attacks until the package is updated.
Conclusion
CVE-2017-14033 represents a significant vulnerability in Ruby that can lead to denial of service attacks. It is crucial for developers and system administrators to update their Ruby installations to the patched versions to maintain application stability and security. Implementing input validation can serve as a temporary measure until the update is applied.
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FAQ
CVE-2017-14033 is a vulnerability in the Ruby programming language that allows attackers to cause a denial of service by exploiting the OpenSSL::ASN1 module.
The vulnerability affects Ruby versions prior to 2.2.8, 2.3.x before 2.3.5, and 2.4.x through 2.4.1.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
The main consequence is a denial of service, where the Ruby interpreter crashes, leading to service interruptions for applications relying on Ruby.
You can update Ruby by running the command 'apk add ruby=2.4.2-r0' on Alpine Linux to ensure you are using a secure version.
References
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