Critical Vulnerability in xorg-server: Potential Remote Code Execution
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2017-12183: xorg-x11-server before 1.19.5 was missing length validation in XFIXES 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 key component of the X Window System, providing the graphical interface for Unix-like operating systems. It manages the display, input devices, and the rendering of graphical elements. The xorg-server package is widely used in various Linux distributions, including Alpine Linux. This package is crucial for enabling graphical user interfaces and applications, making it a vital part of many systems. However, it has been found to have a significant vulnerability that could allow attackers to exploit the system.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2017-12183, exists in xorg-x11-server versions prior to 1.19.5. It is caused by a lack of length validation in the XFIXES extension, which can be exploited by a malicious X client. This flaw may lead to the X server crashing or, in the worst-case scenario, executing arbitrary code. 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 workaround, users can restrict access to the X server to trusted clients only, thereby minimizing the risk of exploitation until the package can be updated.
Conclusion
The xorg-server vulnerability CVE-2017-12183 poses a significant risk to systems using affected versions of the package. Immediate action is required to update to the patched version to prevent potential exploitation. Users should also consider implementing temporary workarounds to mitigate risks until the update can be applied.
See every vulnerability recorded for xorg-server →
FAQ
CVE-2017-12183 is a vulnerability in the xorg-server package that allows for potential remote code execution due to insufficient length validation in the XFIXES extension.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
If immediate updates are not possible, restrict access to the X server to trusted clients as a temporary measure to mitigate risks.
Exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to system crashes or unauthorized execution of arbitrary code, compromising system integrity and security.
The CVSS score of CVE-2017-12183 is 9.8, indicating a critical level of risk associated with this vulnerability.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for xorg-server.
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