Vulnerability in xerces-c - Buffer Overflow

xerces-c Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

25/02/2016
N/A
Yes i
Unrated
Not published

DSA-3493-1: xerces-c - security update. Affects xerces-c versions < 3.1.1-3+deb7u2. Fixed in 3.1.1-3+deb7u2. How to fix ↓

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Background

xerces-c is a validating XML parser library for C++. It is used by various applications to parse and process XML documents. The library is responsible for ensuring the validity and integrity of XML data. However, a vulnerability has been discovered in xerces-c that allows for buffer overflows when processing certain malformed input documents. This vulnerability can lead to a denial of service or potentially the execution of arbitrary code.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability in xerces-c arises from mishandling certain types of malformed input documents. During processing and error reporting, buffer overflows can occur, leading to potential security risks. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by crafting a specially crafted XML document that triggers the buffer overflow. This could result in a denial of service attack or even allow the attacker to execute arbitrary code on the affected system.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

3.1.1-3+deb7u2

This is the first release that contains the fix.

sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade xerces-c

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Workaround

There is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is essential to apply the provided patches or upgrade to the fixed versions of xerces-c to mitigate the risk.

Conclusion

The vulnerability in xerces-c poses a significant risk to applications using the library for XML parsing and processing. It is crucial to upgrade to the patched versions or apply the provided patches to mitigate the risk of buffer overflow attacks. For further assistance and support in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

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FAQ

xerces-c is a validating XML parser library for C++. It is widely used in various applications to parse and process XML documents.

The vulnerability in xerces-c can lead to a denial of service attack or the execution of arbitrary code on the affected system.

To fix this vulnerability, you need to upgrade the xerces-c library to the patched version specified in the advisory.

No, there is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is crucial to apply the provided patches or upgrade to the fixed versions.

You can find more information about this vulnerability in the Debian Security Advisory DSA-3493-1.

Related vulnerabilities

Recent vulnerabilities recorded for xerces-c.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

3.1.1-3+deb7u2

This is the first release that contains the fix.

sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade xerces-c

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