Buffer Underflow Vulnerability in libXvMC: Impact on Remote X Servers
Summary
DEBIAN-CVE-2016-7953: Buffer underflow in X.org libXvMC before 1.0.10 allows remote X servers to have unspecified impact via an empty string. Affects libxvmc versions < 2:1.0.10-1. Fixed in 2:1.0.10-1. How to fix ↓
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Background
libXvMC is a library that provides an interface for video decoding using the X Video Motion Compensation (XvMC) extension in the X Window System. It is commonly used in multimedia applications to enhance video playback performance. However, prior to version 1.0.10, libXvMC is susceptible to a buffer underflow vulnerability that can be exploited by remote X servers, potentially leading to undefined behavior.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises from a buffer underflow in X.org libXvMC before version 1.0.10. This flaw allows remote X servers to exploit the library by sending an empty string, which can lead to unspecified impacts on the system. The technical details indicate that the vulnerability could be leveraged to cause crashes or other unpredictable behavior in applications utilizing the library, posing a risk to system stability and security.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
2:1.0.10-1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade libxvmcTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary measure, users can restrict access to the X server or configure it to only accept connections from trusted sources. This can be done by modifying the X server configuration files to limit access and prevent exploitation of the vulnerability.
Conclusion
The buffer underflow vulnerability in libXvMC poses a significant risk to systems utilizing this library, particularly in multimedia applications. It is crucial for users to update to the patched version to mitigate potential exploitation. Additionally, implementing access restrictions can serve as a temporary workaround until the update is applied.
See every vulnerability recorded for libxvmc →
FAQ
libXvMC is a library that facilitates video decoding using the X Video Motion Compensation extension, enhancing multimedia application performance.
The buffer underflow vulnerability allows remote X servers to exploit the library by sending an empty string, potentially leading to undefined behavior.
You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. Simply upload your manifest file like package-lock.json to check for vulnerabilities.
Yes, you can restrict access to the X server or configure it to accept connections only from trusted sources as a temporary workaround.
Detailed information about this vulnerability can be found in the Debian CVE database and other security advisories.
References
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