Buffer Overflow Vulnerability in NetHack Package - CVE-2023-24809
Summary
DEBIAN-CVE-2023-24809: NetHack is a single player dungeon exploration game. Affects nethack versions < 3.6.7-1. Fixed in 3.6.7-1. How to fix ↓
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Background
NetHack is a popular single-player dungeon exploration game that allows players to navigate through a series of levels filled with monsters, treasures, and traps. The game is known for its complexity and depth, offering a unique experience with each playthrough. However, certain versions of NetHack are vulnerable to a buffer overflow issue that can lead to process crashes and potential security risks, especially in environments where the game is installed with elevated privileges.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-24809 affects NetHack versions starting from 3.6.2 up to, but not including, 3.6.7. It arises from improper handling of illegal input to the 'C' (call) command, which can trigger a buffer overflow. This flaw may lead to a crash of the NetHack process, posing a security threat on systems where NetHack is installed with setuid or setgid permissions, as well as on shared systems. The technical implications include potential exploitation by malicious users to disrupt service or gain unauthorized access.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
3.6.7-1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade nethackTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
There are no known workarounds for this vulnerability. The best course of action is to update to the fixed version as soon as possible.
Conclusion
In summary, CVE-2023-24809 is a critical vulnerability in the NetHack package that can lead to serious security risks and process crashes. Users are urged to update to version 3.6.7-1 or later to mitigate these risks. Regular monitoring for vulnerabilities using tools like Vulert can help maintain the security of your applications.
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FAQ
CVE-2023-24809 is a vulnerability in the NetHack game that can lead to a buffer overflow and process crash due to illegal input handling.
NetHack versions from 3.6.2 to 3.6.6 are affected by this vulnerability.
You can use Vulert's playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
Failing to address this vulnerability may lead to service disruptions, crashes, and potential security breaches on systems where NetHack is installed with elevated privileges.
There are no effective workarounds available. It is strongly recommended to update to the patched version as soon as possible.
References
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