cURL - Embedded End-of-Line Characters Vulnerability
Summary
DSA-3122-1: curl - security update. Affects curl versions < 7.26.0-1+wheezy12. Fixed in 7.26.0-1+wheezy12. How to fix ↓
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Background
cURL is an URL transfer library that allows applications to transfer data using various protocols, including HTTP, FTP, and SMTP. It provides a simple and efficient way to send and receive data over the internet. However, a vulnerability has been discovered in cURL that allows attackers to manipulate URLs with embedded end-of-line characters. This vulnerability can be exploited by an attacker to perform unintended requests or inject additional request headers.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in cURL arises from its failure to handle URLs with embedded end-of-line characters properly. When an application using libcurl attempts to access a specially crafted URL containing such characters via an HTTP proxy, the flaw can be exploited. This allows an attacker to perform additional requests or insert unauthorized request headers into the request. The impact of this vulnerability can range from unauthorized data access to potential remote code execution, depending on the specific application and its usage of cURL.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
7.26.0-1+wheezy12
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade curl
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Workaround
There is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is essential to apply the recommended fix by upgrading the curl package to the patched version.
Conclusion
The embedded end-of-line characters vulnerability in cURL can be exploited by attackers to perform unauthorized requests or inject unauthorized request headers. To mitigate this risk, it is crucial to upgrade the curl package to the patched version. For further support on vulnerability remediation, you can reach out to DevNack.com.
See every vulnerability recorded for curl →
FAQ
cURL is an URL transfer library that allows applications to transfer data using various protocols, such as HTTP, FTP, and SMTP.
The impact of this vulnerability can range from unauthorized data access to potential remote code execution, depending on the specific application and its usage of cURL.
An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by crafting a URL with embedded end-of-line characters and tricking an application using libcurl to access it via an HTTP proxy. This allows the attacker to perform additional requests or inject unauthorized request headers.
No, there is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is crucial to apply the recommended fix by upgrading the curl package to the patched version.
You can use Vulert's playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability. Vulert monitors and alerts in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities without requiring access to the code or installation.
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