Buffer Under-read Vulnerability in Ruby Package: CVE-2018-8778
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2018-8778: In Ruby before 2.2.10, 2.3.x before 2.3.7, 2.4.x before 2.4.4, 2.5.x before 2.5.1, and 2.6.0-preview1, an attacker controlling the unpacking format (similar to format string vulnerabilities) can trigger a buffer under-re... Affects ruby versions < 2.5.1-r0. Fixed in 2.5.1-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 language is known for its elegant syntax and powerful features, but like any software, it is susceptible to vulnerabilities. CVE-2018-8778 is a significant security issue affecting multiple versions of Ruby, which can lead to information disclosure through improper handling of unpacking formats.
Vulnerability Detail
CVE-2018-8778 is a buffer under-read vulnerability found in Ruby versions prior to 2.2.10, 2.3.x before 2.3.7, 2.4.x before 2.4.4, 2.5.x before 2.5.1, and 2.6.0-preview1. This vulnerability arises when an attacker controls the unpacking format, similar to format string vulnerabilities, allowing them to trigger a buffer under-read in the String#unpack method. The consequences include potential information disclosure, where sensitive data could be exposed to unauthorized users, leading to severe security breaches.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
2.5.1-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 upgrading is not possible, consider restricting access to the application or disabling features that utilize the String#unpack method until the update can be applied. This can help mitigate the risk of exploitation.
Conclusion
CVE-2018-8778 represents a serious security vulnerability in Ruby that can lead to significant information disclosure. It is essential for users to update their Ruby installations to the patched versions to mitigate risks. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help monitor and alert for such vulnerabilities in real-time.
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FAQ
CVE-2018-8778 is a buffer under-read vulnerability in Ruby that can lead to information disclosure.
Affected versions include Ruby before 2.2.10, 2.3.x before 2.3.7, 2.4.x before 2.4.4, and 2.5.x before 2.5.1.
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 CVSS score for CVE-2018-8778 is 7.5, indicating a high severity level.
If immediate upgrading is not feasible, consider restricting access to the application or disabling features that utilize the vulnerable method until an update can be applied.
References
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