Out-of-Bounds Memory Access Vulnerability in libXv - CVE-2016-5407
Summary
DEBIAN-CVE-2016-5407: The (1) XvQueryAdaptors and (2) XvQueryEncodings functions in X.org libXv before 1.0.11 allow remote X servers to trigger out-of-bounds memory access operations via vectors involving length specifications in received dat... Affects libxv versions < 2:1.0.11-1. Fixed in 2:1.0.11-1. How to fix ↓
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Background
libXv is a library that provides an interface for the X Video Extension, allowing applications to access video hardware capabilities. It is commonly used in multimedia applications to enhance video playback. The library is part of the X.Org project, which is responsible for the development of the X Window System. This vulnerability affects versions of libXv prior to 1.0.11, making it susceptible to remote exploitation.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-5407 arises from the XvQueryAdaptors and XvQueryEncodings functions in libXv prior to version 1.0.11. These functions allow remote X servers to trigger out-of-bounds memory access operations due to improper handling of length specifications in received data. This could lead to potential crashes or arbitrary code execution, posing significant risks to system integrity and security.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
2:1.0.11-1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade libxvTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can restrict access to the X server or implement firewall rules to limit connections from untrusted sources, thereby reducing the risk of exploitation until the package can be updated.
Conclusion
CVE-2016-5407 presents a significant security risk for systems using vulnerable versions of the libXv library. It is crucial for users to update to the patched version to mitigate potential exploitation. Additionally, utilizing tools like Vulert can help in monitoring vulnerabilities in open-source software effectively.
See every vulnerability recorded for libxv →
FAQ
CVE-2016-5407 is a vulnerability in the libXv library that allows remote X servers to exploit out-of-bounds memory access, potentially leading to crashes or code execution.
You can use the Vulert platform to monitor and alert for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. Visit Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected without needing to sign up.
The risks include system crashes and the possibility of arbitrary code execution, which can compromise the security and integrity of the affected system.
Yes, a patch is available in version 2:1.0.11-1 of the libXv package. Updating to this version will resolve the vulnerability.
If immediate updates are not possible, consider implementing access restrictions to the X server or using firewall rules to limit exposure to untrusted connections.
References
Related vulnerabilities
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