Critical Vulnerability in xorg-server: Potential Remote Code Execution Risk
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2017-12182: xorg-x11-server before 1.19.5 was missing length validation in XFree86 DRI extension allowing malicious X client to cause X server to crash or possibly execute arbitrary code. Affects xorg-server versions < 1.19.5-r0. Fixed in 1.19.5-r0. How to fix ↓
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Background
xorg-server is a crucial component of the X Window System, providing the graphical interface for Unix-like operating systems. It facilitates the interaction between the operating system and the graphical hardware, enabling users to run graphical applications. The xorg-server package is widely used in various Linux distributions, including Alpine Linux. However, prior to version 1.19.5, it was found to have a significant vulnerability that could allow malicious actors to exploit the system.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2017-12182, stems from a lack of length validation in the XFree86 DRI extension of xorg-server versions before 1.19.5. This oversight allows a malicious X client to send crafted requests that could lead to the X server crashing or, in a worst-case scenario, executing arbitrary code on the host system. The severity of this vulnerability is underscored by its CVSS score of 9.8, indicating a critical risk to affected systems.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
1.19.5-r0
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apk add --upgrade xorg-serverTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary measure, users can restrict access to the X server by limiting the clients that can connect to it. This can be done by configuring the xorg-server settings to only allow trusted clients or by using firewall rules to block unauthorized access.
Conclusion
In summary, the xorg-server package has a critical vulnerability (CVE-2017-12182) that poses significant risks to systems running affected versions. It is crucial to update to version 1.19.5-r0 or later to mitigate these risks. Users are encouraged to utilize tools like Vulert for ongoing monitoring of vulnerabilities in their software.
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FAQ
CVE-2017-12182 is a critical vulnerability in the xorg-server package that allows for potential remote code execution due to insufficient length validation in the XFree86 DRI extension.
You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in your software by analyzing your manifest file. Visit Vulert Scanner to check your application without any signup.
Failure to address this vulnerability could lead to system crashes or unauthorized code execution, potentially compromising the integrity and security of your system.
Yes, you can mitigate the risk by restricting access to the X server and ensuring that only trusted clients can connect to it.
The CVSS score of CVE-2017-12182 is 9.8, indicating a critical level of risk associated with this vulnerability.
References
Related vulnerabilities
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