Denial of Service Vulnerability in Python 2.7

python2.7 Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

11/03/2020
N/A
Yes i
High
7.5

CVE-2013-1753: The gzip_decode function in the xmlrpc client library in Python 3.4 and earlier allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (memory consumption) via a crafted HTTP request. Affects python2.7 versions < 2.7.9-1. Fixed in 2.7.9-1. How to fix ↓

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Background

Python 2.7 is a widely used programming language that provides a comprehensive set of libraries and tools for various applications. It is vulnerable to a Denial of Service (DoS) attack due to a flaw in the gzip_decode function of the xmlrpc client library. This vulnerability allows remote attackers to consume excessive memory by sending a specially crafted HTTP request.

Vulnerability Detail

The gzip_decode function in the xmlrpc client library of Python 2.7 and earlier versions is susceptible to a DoS attack. By exploiting this vulnerability, an attacker can send a malicious HTTP request that triggers excessive memory consumption. This can lead to a complete denial of service, causing the affected system to become unresponsive or crash. The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 7.5, indicating a high severity.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

2.7.9-1

This is the first release that contains the fix.

sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade python2.7

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Workaround

There is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is essential to apply the recommended fix by upgrading to the patched version of Python 2.7.

Conclusion

The Denial of Service vulnerability in Python 2.7 allows remote attackers to consume excessive memory, leading to a complete denial of service. It is recommended to upgrade to Python 2.7.9-1 or later to fix this vulnerability. For further support and assistance in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

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FAQ

This vulnerability can lead to a denial of service, causing the affected system to become unresponsive or crash.

You can use the Vulert Playground (https://vulert.com/scanner) to check if your Python installation is affected by this vulnerability. Simply upload your package-lock.json file to the playground, and it will provide real-time monitoring and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities.

Yes, a patch is available for this vulnerability. It is recommended to upgrade to Python 2.7.9-1 or later to fix the issue.

No, this vulnerability only affects Python 2.7 and earlier versions. Python 3.4 and later versions are not vulnerable to this issue.

There is no known exploit for this vulnerability at the moment. However, it is crucial to apply the fix as soon as possible to prevent any potential attacks.

Related vulnerabilities

Recent vulnerabilities recorded for python2.7.

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How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

2.7.9-1

This is the first release that contains the fix.

sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade python2.7

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

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