Buffer Overflow in Cscope 15.5

cscope Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

31/12/2004
N/A
Yes i
Unrated
Not published

CVE-2004-2541: Buffer overflow in Cscope 15.5, and possibly multiple overflows, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a C file with a long #include line that is later browsed by the target. Affects cscope versions < 15.5+cvs20050816-1.1. Fixed in 15.5+cvs20050816-1.1. How to fix ↓

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Background

Cscope is a tool used for browsing C source code. It allows users to search for functions, variables, and other symbols in large codebases. The vulnerability affects version 15.5 of Cscope and potentially other versions as well. The vulnerability arises from a buffer overflow issue when processing a C file with a long #include line. This vulnerability can be exploited by remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on the target system.

Vulnerability Detail

The buffer overflow vulnerability in Cscope 15.5 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code. By providing a C file with a long #include line, an attacker can trigger the overflow when the file is later browsed by the target. This can lead to the execution of malicious code with the privileges of the Cscope process. The impact of this vulnerability can be severe, potentially allowing an attacker to gain unauthorized access, modify data, or disrupt the normal operation of the system.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

15.5+cvs20050816-1.1

This is the first release that contains the fix.

sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade cscope

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Workaround

There is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is essential to update to the fixed version of Cscope to ensure the security of the system.

Conclusion

The buffer overflow vulnerability in Cscope 15.5 can be exploited by remote attackers to execute arbitrary code. To mitigate this risk, it is essential to update to the fixed version of Cscope. For further support on vulnerability remediation, contact DevNack.com.

See every vulnerability recorded for cscope →

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FAQ

Cscope is a tool used for browsing C source code. It provides functionality for searching functions, variables, and other symbols in large codebases.

The buffer overflow vulnerability occurs when Cscope processes a C file with a long #include line. This can be exploited by remote attackers to execute arbitrary code.

The potential consequences of this vulnerability include unauthorized access, data modification, and disruption of system operation. An attacker could execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the Cscope process.

No, there is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is crucial to update to the fixed version of Cscope.

To fix this vulnerability, update Cscope to version 15.5+cvs20050816-1.1 or later.

Related vulnerabilities

Recent vulnerabilities recorded for cscope.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

15.5+cvs20050816-1.1

This is the first release that contains the fix.

sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade cscope

Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →

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