Privilege Escalation Vulnerability in xorg-server: Integer Underflow Leading to Heap-Buffer Overflow
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2020-14362: 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 ↓
Check if this vulnerability affects your application
Upload a manifest or SBOM and we'll show whether you're affected, plus every other risky package in the same scan.
No signup required · Results in about 60 seconds
Background
xorg-server is a critical component of the X Window System, providing the core functionality for graphical user interfaces on Unix-like operating systems. It manages graphical displays, input devices, and rendering of graphical elements. The xorg-server package is widely used in various Linux distributions, including Alpine Linux, and is essential for running graphical applications. However, it has been found to be vulnerable to an integer underflow issue that can lead to serious security implications.
Vulnerability Detail
A flaw was discovered in xorg-server before version 1.20.9, where an integer underflow can result in a heap-buffer overflow. This vulnerability can be exploited to escalate privileges, potentially allowing an attacker to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data or disrupt system availability. The vulnerability poses a significant threat to data confidentiality and integrity, as well as overall system stability.
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 graphical applications until the package is updated. This can help mitigate the risk of exploitation until a proper fix is applied.
Conclusion
The xorg-server package has a critical vulnerability that can lead to privilege escalation due to an integer underflow issue. Users are strongly advised to update their packages to the latest patched versions to ensure system security. Additionally, temporary workarounds can help mitigate risks until updates are applied.
See every vulnerability recorded for xorg-server →
FAQ
The CVSS score of this vulnerability is 7.8, indicating a high severity level.
You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. By utilizing the Vulert playground, you can check if your application is affected without needing to sign up.
Exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to privilege escalation, unauthorized access to sensitive data, and disruption of system availability.
Yes, patches are available for various versions of the xorg-server package. Users should update to the specified patched versions to mitigate the vulnerability.
If immediate updates are not possible, consider implementing access restrictions to the xorg-server service and limiting the execution of graphical applications as a temporary measure.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for xorg-server.
