Critical Security Update for Emacs: DSA-5871-1
Summary
DSA-5871-1: emacs - security update. Affects emacs versions < 1:28.2+1-15+deb12u4. Fixed in 1:28.2+1-15+deb12u4. How to fix ↓
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Background
Emacs is a highly extensible and customizable text editor widely used by programmers and writers. It provides a robust environment for editing text and code, featuring a powerful scripting language, support for various programming languages, and a vast array of plugins. However, like any software, Emacs can be vulnerable to security issues that may compromise user data or system integrity.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as DSA-5871-1 affects Emacs versions prior to 1:28.2+1-15+deb12u4. It is associated with CVE-2024-53920 and CVE-2025-1244, which may allow attackers to exploit weaknesses in the software, potentially leading to unauthorized access or data manipulation. The exact nature of the vulnerability is linked to how Emacs processes certain inputs, which could be leveraged by malicious actors.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
1:28.2+1-15+deb12u4
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade emacsTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary measure, users can limit the use of certain features in Emacs that may be susceptible to exploitation until the update is applied. However, the best course of action is to update to the patched version as soon as possible.
Conclusion
The DSA-5871-1 security update for Emacs addresses critical vulnerabilities that could compromise user data and system integrity. It is essential for users to update to the patched version to ensure their systems remain secure. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help in monitoring for such vulnerabilities in the future.
See every vulnerability recorded for emacs →
FAQ
DSA-5871-1 is a security advisory related to a vulnerability in the Emacs text editor that requires immediate attention to protect user data.
You can check your Emacs version by running 'emacs --version' in the terminal. If it is below 1:28.2+1-15+deb12u4, it is affected.
CVE-2024-53920 and CVE-2025-1244 are identifiers for specific vulnerabilities that have been documented and are associated with the security issues in Emacs.
Yes, you can use Vulert, which monitors open-source vulnerabilities in your software using a manifest file like package-lock.json. You can check your application for vulnerabilities at Vulert Scanner.
If you cannot update immediately, consider limiting the use of vulnerable features in Emacs until you can apply the security patch.
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