Buffer Overflow Vulnerability in git-core

git-core Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

15/09/2008
N/A
Yes i
Unrated
Not published

DSA-1637-1: git-core - buffer overflow. Affects git-core versions < 1:1.4.4.4-2.1+etch1. Fixed in 1:1.4.4.4-2.1+etch1. How to fix ↓

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Background

git-core is the core component of the git distributed revision control system. It provides the fundamental functionality for managing repositories and version control. The vulnerability identified in git-core is related to improper path length limitations in the diff and grep functions. This vulnerability can be exploited by maliciously crafted repositories or changes, leading to a stack buffer overflow and potentially allowing the execution of arbitrary code.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2008-3546, arises from the lack of proper path length limitations in git's diff and grep functions. When combined with malicious repositories or changes, this can result in a stack buffer overflow. An attacker could leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code on the affected system, potentially leading to further compromise or unauthorized access.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

1:1.4.4.4-2.1+etch1

This is the first release that contains the fix.

sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade git-core

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Workaround

There is no specific workaround mentioned for this vulnerability. The recommended approach is to apply the provided fix by upgrading the git-core package to the fixed versions.

Conclusion

The buffer overflow vulnerability in git-core can be exploited by malicious repositories or changes, potentially leading to the execution of arbitrary code. To mitigate this vulnerability, it is crucial to upgrade the git-core package to the fixed versions. For further support on vulnerability remediation, you can contact DevNack.com.

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FAQ

git-core is the core component of the git distributed revision control system. It provides essential functionality for managing repositories and version control.

A buffer overflow vulnerability occurs when a program writes data beyond the boundaries of a fixed-size buffer, potentially overwriting adjacent memory. This can lead to various security issues, including the execution of arbitrary code.

This vulnerability can be exploited by crafting malicious repositories or changes that trigger the buffer overflow in git's diff and grep functions. By exploiting this vulnerability, an attacker could execute arbitrary code on the affected system.

Yes, a fix is available for this vulnerability. It is recommended to upgrade the git-core package to the fixed versions: 1.4.4.4-2.1+etch1 for the stable distribution (etch) and 1.5.6.5-1 for the unstable distribution (sid).

You can find more information about this vulnerability in the Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) database with the identifier CVE-2008-3546.

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Recent vulnerabilities recorded for git-core.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

1:1.4.4.4-2.1+etch1

This is the first release that contains the fix.

sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade git-core

Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →

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