Critical Vulnerability in Ruby Package: UNIXSocket Null Character Handling
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2018-8779: 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, the UNIXServer.open and UNIXSocket.open methods are not checked for null characters. 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 Ruby package provides essential libraries and tools for developers to build applications. However, certain versions of Ruby are vulnerable to a security flaw that allows for unintended socket connections due to improper handling of null characters in UNIXServer and UNIXSocket methods.
Vulnerability Detail
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, the methods UNIXServer.open and UNIXSocket.open do not validate input for null characters. This oversight can lead to the establishment of unintended socket connections, potentially exposing applications to unauthorized access and data breaches. The vulnerability is classified under CVE-2018-8779 and has a CVSS score of 7.5, indicating a high severity level.
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
As a temporary measure, avoid using the UNIXServer.open and UNIXSocket.open methods with untrusted input. Implement input validation to sanitize any user-provided data before processing it through these methods.
Conclusion
The vulnerability CVE-2018-8779 poses a significant risk to applications using affected versions of Ruby. By updating to the patched version and implementing input validation, developers can mitigate the risks associated with this flaw. Utilizing tools like Vulert can further enhance security by providing real-time alerts for open-source vulnerabilities.
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FAQ
CVE-2018-8779 is a security vulnerability in Ruby that allows for unintended socket connections due to improper handling of null characters in specific methods.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without requiring any signup.
Affected versions include 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.
Update your Ruby package to version 2.5.1-r0 or later to patch the vulnerability. Additionally, validate inputs to prevent untrusted data from being processed.
Vulert is a tool that monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in software using just a manifest file like package-lock.json. It helps developers stay informed about vulnerabilities in their applications.
References
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