Null Pointer Dereference Exploit in libgsf

libgsf Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

11/12/2016
N/A
Yes i
Unrated
Not published

DLA-740-1: libgsf - security update. Affects libgsf versions < 1.14.21-2.1+deb7u1. Fixed in 1.14.21-2.1+deb7u1. How to fix ↓

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Background

libgsf is an I/O abstraction library for GNOME that provides support for reading and writing structured files. It is commonly used in applications that handle various file formats. This vulnerability affects libgsf in Debian 7 Wheezy.

Vulnerability Detail

A null pointer dereference exploit was discovered in libgsf. The vulnerability lies within the "tar_directory_for_file()" function, which can be exploited by a crafted TAR file. By triggering the exploit, an attacker can cause a null pointer dereference and subsequently crash the application. This vulnerability could potentially lead to a denial of service (DoS) attack.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

1.14.21-2.1+deb7u1

This is the first release that contains the fix.

sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade libgsf

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Conclusion

The null pointer dereference exploit in libgsf can be mitigated by upgrading to the latest version of the libgsf package. It is important to promptly apply the recommended fix to prevent potential crashes and denial of service attacks. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

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FAQ

libgsf is an I/O abstraction library for GNOME that provides support for reading and writing structured files.

A null pointer dereference occurs when a program attempts to access or manipulate memory using a null pointer, resulting in a crash or unexpected behavior.

This vulnerability can be exploited to crash applications that use libgsf, potentially leading to a denial of service (DoS) attack.

To fix this vulnerability, you should upgrade the libgsf package to version 1.14.21-2.1+deb7u1 or later.

No specific workaround has been provided for this vulnerability. It is recommended to apply the available patch by upgrading the libgsf package.

Related vulnerabilities

Recent vulnerabilities recorded for libgsf.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

1.14.21-2.1+deb7u1

This is the first release that contains the fix.

sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade libgsf

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

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