Buffer Overflow Vulnerability in HTMLDOC Package
Summary
DEBIAN-CVE-2024-46478: HTMLDOC v1.9.18 contains a buffer overflow in parse_pre function,ps-pdf.cxx:5681. Affects htmldoc versions < 1.9.18-3. Fixed in 1.9.18-3. How to fix ↓
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Background
HTMLDOC is a tool that converts HTML documents into various formats, including PDF and PostScript. It is widely used for generating documentation and reports from web content. The package is known for its ease of use and versatility, making it a popular choice among developers and technical writers. However, a recent vulnerability has been identified that could potentially compromise the integrity of the software.
Vulnerability Detail
HTMLDOC version 1.9.18 contains a buffer overflow vulnerability in the parse_pre function located in ps-pdf.cxx at line 5681. This flaw allows an attacker to exploit the buffer overflow, which could lead to arbitrary code execution or application crashes. The vulnerability arises from improper handling of input data, which can overflow the allocated buffer, causing unpredictable behavior and potential security risks.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
1.9.18-3
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade htmldocTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can avoid using the affected functionality of HTMLDOC until the package is updated. It is advisable to limit the input data size to prevent triggering the buffer overflow until a fix is applied.
Conclusion
The buffer overflow vulnerability in HTMLDOC poses significant risks to users of the software. It is crucial to update to the patched version to ensure the security and stability of applications relying on this package. Users are encouraged to monitor their systems for vulnerabilities using tools like Vulert.
See every vulnerability recorded for htmldoc →
FAQ
A buffer overflow vulnerability occurs when a program writes more data to a block of memory, or buffer, than it was allocated for. This can lead to unexpected behavior, crashes, or security breaches.
You can use Vulert, which monitors open-source vulnerabilities in your software. By simply uploading your manifest file like package-lock.json, you can check for vulnerabilities in real-time.
The risks include potential arbitrary code execution, application crashes, and unauthorized access to sensitive data, which can compromise the security of the system.
Yes, limiting the input data size and avoiding the use of the affected functionality can help mitigate the risk until the patch is applied.
More information can be found in the official Debian CVE database and through security advisories related to HTMLDOC.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for htmldoc.
