Privilege Escalation Vulnerability in xorg-server: Integer Underflow and Heap-Buffer Overflow
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2020-14361: A flaw was found in X.Org Server before xorg-x11-server 1.20.9. Affects xorg-server versions < 1.20.5-r2. Fixed in 1.20.5-r2. 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 be vulnerable to an integer underflow issue that can lead to a heap-buffer overflow, potentially allowing attackers to escalate privileges and compromise system integrity.
Vulnerability Detail
A flaw was discovered in xorg-server versions prior to 1.20.9, where an integer underflow could lead to a heap-buffer overflow. This vulnerability poses a significant risk, as it may allow attackers to escalate their privileges, potentially compromising data confidentiality, integrity, and system availability. The vulnerability is classified under CVE-2020-14361 and has a CVSS score of 7.8, indicating a high severity level.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
1.20.5-r2
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 xorg-server service or limit the execution of applications that rely on it until the package is updated. However, this is not a permanent solution and updating the package is strongly recommended.
Conclusion
The xorg-server package has a critical vulnerability (CVE-2020-14361) that can lead to privilege escalation due to an integer underflow and heap-buffer overflow. Users are strongly advised to update to the latest patched versions to mitigate risks associated with this vulnerability.
See every vulnerability recorded for xorg-server →
FAQ
CVE-2020-14361 is a vulnerability in the xorg-server package that allows for privilege escalation due to an integer underflow leading to a heap-buffer overflow.
The vulnerability can lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, and system instability, affecting data confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
You can use Vulert's playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without any signup.
The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 7.8, indicating a high severity level.
If immediate updates are not possible, consider restricting access to the xorg-server service or limiting the execution of dependent applications as a temporary measure.
References
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