Insecure Connection Vulnerability in system-config-printer: Risk of Remote Code Execution
Summary
DEBIAN-CVE-2011-4405: The cupshelpers scripts in system-config-printer in Ubuntu 11.04 and 11.10, as used by the automatic printer driver download service, uses an "insecure connection" for queries to the OpenPrinting database, which allows r... Affects system-config-printer versions < 1.3.7-1. Fixed in 1.3.7-1. 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
system-config-printer is a graphical user interface for managing printers and print jobs in Linux environments. It simplifies the process of adding and configuring printers, allowing users to easily manage their printing needs. However, a vulnerability has been identified in the cupshelpers scripts used by this package, which can lead to serious security risks.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises from the use of an insecure connection in the cupshelpers scripts of system-config-printer, specifically in versions prior to 1.3.7-1. This flaw allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code through a man-in-the-middle (MITM) attack, where they can modify packages or repositories during the automatic printer driver download service. This can lead to unauthorized access and control over the affected systems.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
1.3.7-1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade system-config-printerTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can disable the automatic printer driver download service until the package is updated. This can be done by modifying the configuration settings in the system-config-printer interface or by editing the relevant configuration files directly.
Conclusion
The system-config-printer package has a critical vulnerability that can lead to remote code execution due to the use of an insecure connection. It is essential for users to update to the patched version to safeguard their systems. Temporary workarounds are available, but the best course of action is to apply the update as soon as possible.
See every vulnerability recorded for system-config-printer →
FAQ
The vulnerability can allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on the affected system, potentially leading to unauthorized access and control.
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.
Yes, the patched version of system-config-printer is 1.3.7-1. Updating to this version will resolve the vulnerability.
As a temporary measure, consider disabling the automatic printer driver download service to mitigate the risk until you can apply the update.
Detailed information can be found in the Debian CVE database at https://storage.googleapis.com/debian-osv/debian-cve-osv/DEBIAN-CVE-2011-4405.json.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for system-config-printer.
Follow Vulert in Google
Get more Vulert vulnerability and dependency-security updates in Google Search and AI results.