Critical Update Required: tzdata Package Vulnerability in Debian 11
Summary
DLA-4105-1: tzdata - new timezone database. Affects tzdata versions < 2025b-0+deb11u1. Fixed in 2025b-0+deb11u1. How to fix ↓
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Background
The tzdata package provides time zone and daylight saving time data for various regions around the world. It is essential for applications that rely on accurate timekeeping, ensuring that timestamps reflect the correct local time. The package is widely used across many systems and applications, making its integrity crucial for proper functionality.
Vulnerability Detail
The tzdata package has been identified with a vulnerability that stems from an outdated timezone database. This can lead to incorrect time calculations, which may affect scheduling, logging, and other time-sensitive operations. The vulnerability is particularly concerning for systems that rely on accurate time data for operations such as transaction logging, event scheduling, and time-based access controls.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
2025b-0+deb11u1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade tzdataTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
If immediate updating is not feasible, consider temporarily adjusting your system's timezone settings manually to mitigate the impact of the outdated database. However, this is not a long-term solution and should only be used until the package can be updated.
Conclusion
The tzdata package vulnerability in Debian 11 poses a significant risk due to its reliance on accurate time data. It is crucial to update the package to the latest version to mitigate potential issues. Users are encouraged to utilize tools like Vulert for ongoing monitoring of vulnerabilities in their software.
See every vulnerability recorded for tzdata →
FAQ
The tzdata package provides time zone and daylight saving time data, which is essential for accurate timekeeping in applications.
Failing to update tzdata can lead to incorrect time calculations, affecting scheduling, logging, and other time-sensitive operations.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
Run 'sudo apt-get update && sudo apt-get install tzdata' in your terminal to update the tzdata package to the latest version.
Yes, Vulert can monitor and alert you in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities using just a manifest file like package-lock.json.
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for tzdata.
