Code Execution Vulnerability in Pidgin
Summary
CVE-2016-1000030: Pidgin version. Affects pidgin versions < 2.11.0-1. Fixed in 2.11.0-1. 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
Pidgin is an open-source instant messaging client that supports multiple chat protocols. It provides a user-friendly interface for communication across different platforms. However, Pidgin versions prior to 2.11.0 are vulnerable to a code execution vulnerability related to the import of X.509 certificates. This vulnerability arises due to improper checks of return values from gnutls_x509_crt_init() and gnutls_x509_crt_import(). An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by sending a custom X.509 certificate from another client, potentially leading to code execution.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability (CVE-2016-1000030) in Pidgin allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code by exploiting the improper handling of X.509 certificates during import. By sending a specially crafted certificate, an attacker can trigger the vulnerability and execute malicious code on the target system. This can result in various consequences, such as unauthorized access, data theft, or further compromise of the affected system. The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 9.8, indicating its critical severity.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
2.11.0-1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade pidginTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can disable the import of X.509 certificates in Pidgin. This can be achieved by modifying the application's settings or preferences to disallow the import of certificates. However, this workaround may limit certain functionalities that rely on certificate imports, so it is recommended to apply the official fix as soon as possible.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Pidgin versions prior to 2.11.0 are vulnerable to a code execution vulnerability related to the import of X.509 certificates. This vulnerability can be exploited by an attacker to execute arbitrary code on the target system. It is crucial to update Pidgin to the latest version and apply the necessary patches to mitigate this vulnerability. For further support on vulnerability remediation, contact DevNack.com.
See every vulnerability recorded for pidgin →
FAQ
Pidgin is an open-source instant messaging client that supports various chat protocols, allowing users to communicate across different platforms.
The vulnerability allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code on the target system, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data theft, or further compromise.
To fix this vulnerability, update Pidgin to version 2.11.0 or later. Download the latest version from the official Pidgin website or through your package manager.
As a temporary workaround, you can disable the import of X.509 certificates in Pidgin. However, this may limit certain functionalities that rely on certificate imports.
The CVSS score of this vulnerability is 9.8, indicating its critical severity.
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for pidgin.
