Integer Overflow Vulnerability in libXcursor and Wayland: CVE-2017-16612
Summary
DEBIAN-CVE-2017-16612: libXcursor before 1.1.15 has various integer overflows that could lead to heap buffer overflows when processing malicious cursors, e.g., with programs like GIMP. Affects libxcursor versions < 1:1.1.14-3.1. Fixed in 1:1.1.14-3.1. 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
libXcursor is a library that provides functions for loading and manipulating cursor images in X11 environments. It is commonly used in graphical applications to manage cursor appearances. The library is integral to user interface design in applications like GIMP. The vulnerability in question affects versions prior to 1.1.15, where integer overflows can lead to heap buffer overflows, potentially compromising application security.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2017-16612, originates from various integer overflows in libXcursor before version 1.1.15. These overflows can lead to heap buffer overflows when processing malicious cursor files. This could allow attackers to exploit applications that utilize libXcursor, such as GIMP, to execute arbitrary code. Additionally, there is a potential attack vector in the related Wayland code through version 1.14.0, which could also be affected by similar issues.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
1:1.1.14-3.1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade libxcursorTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can avoid opening untrusted cursor files in applications that utilize libXcursor until the package is updated. It is advisable to validate cursor files before use.
Conclusion
The CVE-2017-16612 vulnerability in libXcursor and Wayland poses significant security risks due to potential heap buffer overflows. Users are strongly encouraged to update their packages to the latest versions to mitigate these risks. Temporary workarounds are available, but the best course of action is to apply the necessary updates.
See every vulnerability recorded for libxcursor →
FAQ
CVE-2017-16612 is a vulnerability in the libXcursor library that can lead to heap buffer overflows due to integer overflows when processing malicious cursor files.
Versions of libXcursor prior to 1.1.15 are affected by this vulnerability.
You can use the Vulert platform to monitor and alert for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. Simply upload your manifest file like package-lock.json to check for vulnerabilities.
If immediate updates are not possible, avoid using untrusted cursor files and validate any cursor files before use as a temporary workaround.
More information can be found in the official Debian CVE database or by visiting the Vulert website for real-time monitoring of vulnerabilities.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for libxcursor.
