Privilege Escalation Vulnerability in xorg-server: CVE-2018-14665
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2018-14665: A flaw was found in xorg-x11-server before 1.20.3. Affects xorg-server versions < 1.20.3-r0. Fixed in 1.20.3-r0. How to fix ↓
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Background
xorg-server is a core component of the X Window System, responsible for managing graphical displays on Unix-like operating systems. It provides essential services for rendering graphics and handling input devices. The package is widely used in various Linux distributions, including Alpine Linux. However, it has been found to contain a critical vulnerability that allows unprivileged users to escalate their privileges, potentially compromising system security.
Vulnerability Detail
A flaw was discovered in xorg-server versions prior to 1.20.3, where an incorrect permission check for the -modulepath and -logfile options during the startup of the X server could allow unprivileged users to execute arbitrary code with root privileges. This vulnerability poses a significant risk as it enables attackers with physical access to the console to gain elevated permissions, leading to potential system compromise.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
1.20.3-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 physical access to the console to prevent unprivileged users from exploiting this vulnerability until the package is updated.
Conclusion
The xorg-server package has a critical vulnerability (CVE-2018-14665) that allows privilege escalation for unprivileged users. It is crucial to update the package to the latest patched version to safeguard your system. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help in monitoring and identifying vulnerabilities in your software.
See every vulnerability recorded for xorg-server →
FAQ
CVE-2018-14665 is a vulnerability in the xorg-server package that allows unprivileged users to escalate their privileges and execute arbitrary code with root permissions.
You can use the Vulert platform to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability. Simply upload your manifest file like package-lock.json to monitor for vulnerabilities.
The CVSS score for CVE-2018-14665 is 6.6, indicating a medium severity level.
If immediate updates are not feasible, restrict physical access to the console as a temporary workaround to mitigate the risk of exploitation.
Vulert is a service that monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in software using a manifest file. You can check your application for vulnerabilities without needing to install any software.
References
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