Critical Vulnerability in Subversion: Server Process Disruption
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2019-0203: In Apache Subversion versions up to and including 1.9.10, 1.10.4, 1.12.0, Subversion's svnserve server process may exit when a client sends certain sequences of protocol commands. Affects subversion versions < 1.12.2-r0. Fixed in 1.12.2-r0. How to fix ↓
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Background
Subversion is an open-source version control system that allows developers to manage changes to source code over time. It is widely used for collaborative software development, enabling multiple users to work on the same project without conflicts. The system supports various protocols for communication, including svnserve, which is a server process that handles client requests. This vulnerability affects specific versions of Subversion, making it susceptible to server disruptions when certain protocol commands are sent by clients.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2019-0203, exists in Apache Subversion versions up to and including 1.9.10, 1.10.4, and 1.12.0. It allows the svnserve server process to exit unexpectedly when a client sends specific sequences of protocol commands. This can lead to service disruption for users relying on the server, potentially affecting ongoing development work and collaboration. The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 7.5, indicating a high severity level.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
1.12.2-r0
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apk add --upgrade subversion
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Workaround
As a temporary workaround, you may consider disabling the svnserve server process until the package is updated to a secure version. This can be done by stopping the service with the command: 'service svnserve stop'. However, this will prevent any client access to the repository until the service is restarted.
Conclusion
The CVE-2019-0203 vulnerability poses a significant risk to users of Apache Subversion, particularly those using affected versions. It is crucial to update to the patched versions to ensure the stability and security of the server. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help monitor and manage vulnerabilities effectively.
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FAQ
CVE-2019-0203 is a vulnerability in Apache Subversion that allows the svnserve server process to exit unexpectedly due to specific client command sequences.
The vulnerability affects Subversion versions up to and including 1.9.10, 1.10.4, and 1.12.0.
The vulnerability can lead to server disruptions, affecting users' ability to access and collaborate on projects hosted on the Subversion server.
You can use Vulert, which monitors open-source vulnerabilities in your software using a manifest file like package-lock.json. Visit Vulert Scanner to check your application without needing to sign up.
If an immediate update is not possible, consider stopping the svnserve service to prevent client access until the vulnerability is patched.
References
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