Format String Vulnerability in Clearsilver Package: Potential Remote Code Execution Risk
Summary
DEBIAN-CVE-2011-4357: Format string vulnerability in the p_cgi_error function in python/neo_cgi.c in the Python CGI Kit (neo_cgi) module for Clearsilver 0.10.5 and earlier allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (crash) and possi... Affects clearsilver versions < 0.10.5-1.3. Fixed in 0.10.5-1.3. How to fix ↓
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Background
Clearsilver is a fast, powerful, and flexible template system for rendering web pages. It is widely used in web applications to generate dynamic content. The package provides a CGI Kit module, which allows developers to create web applications using Python. However, an identified vulnerability in the p_cgi_error function of the neo_cgi module poses a significant risk, as it can lead to denial of service and potentially allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises from a format string issue in the p_cgi_error function located in python/neo_cgi.c within the Clearsilver package version 0.10.5 and earlier. This flaw allows remote attackers to exploit improperly handled format string specifiers when generating CGI error messages through the cgi_error API function. The consequences of this vulnerability include application crashes and the potential execution of arbitrary code, which can compromise the security of the affected system.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
0.10.5-1.3
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade clearsilverTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, you may consider disabling the CGI error handling feature until the package is updated. This can be done by modifying the application configuration to bypass the use of the cgi_error API function.
Conclusion
The format string vulnerability in the Clearsilver package poses significant risks, including potential remote code execution and denial of service. It is crucial for users to update to the patched version 0.10.5-1.3 to mitigate these risks. Additionally, utilizing tools like Vulert can help monitor and alert for open-source vulnerabilities in real-time.
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FAQ
Clearsilver is a template system used for rendering web pages, allowing developers to create dynamic content in web applications.
It is a security flaw that allows attackers to manipulate format string specifiers, potentially leading to application crashes or arbitrary code execution.
You can use Vulert's playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
The risks include denial of service, application crashes, and the possibility of remote code execution, which can compromise system security.
Yes, the vulnerability has been patched in version 0.10.5-1.3 of the Clearsilver package. Updating to this version or later will resolve the issue.
References
Related vulnerabilities
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