Global Buffer Overflow Vulnerability in gpsd Package
Summary
OSV-2026-189: Global-buffer-overflow in gpsd_poll. Affects gpsd versions >= 6207b0a06a6c5c33dc366a856529b17244b04d2f, < 4f56109c04a747a44de37cd345d9d1f8cbc93bf6. Fixed in 4f56109c04a747a44de37cd345d9d1f8cbc93bf6. How to fix ↓
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Background
The gpsd package is an open-source service daemon that monitors GPS devices and provides location data to client applications. It is widely used in various applications requiring precise location tracking. The package is known for its ability to handle multiple GPS devices simultaneously and offers a range of features for data parsing and communication. However, like many software packages, gpsd is susceptible to vulnerabilities that can compromise its functionality and security.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified in the gpsd package is a global buffer overflow occurring in the gpsd_poll function. This issue was reported through OSS-Fuzz, a service that identifies vulnerabilities in open-source software through fuzz testing. The specific crash type is a global buffer overflow during a read operation, which can lead to potential data corruption, application crashes, or even arbitrary code execution if exploited. The vulnerability was introduced in the codebase and has been fixed in a subsequent commit.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
4f56109c04a747a44de37cd345d9d1f8cbc93bf6
This is the first release that contains the fix.
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Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can limit the input size to the gpsd_poll function to prevent buffer overflow. However, this is not a permanent solution and updating to the patched version is strongly recommended.
Conclusion
The global buffer overflow vulnerability in the gpsd package poses significant risks to applications relying on this service for GPS data. Users are strongly encouraged to update to the latest patched version to safeguard their systems against potential exploits. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help in monitoring and managing open-source vulnerabilities effectively.
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FAQ
A global buffer overflow is a type of vulnerability where a program writes more data to a buffer than it can hold, potentially overwriting adjacent memory and leading to unpredictable behavior or security breaches.
You can use the Vulert platform to monitor and alert for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. By uploading your manifest file like package-lock.json, you can check if your application is affected by this vulnerability.
Exploiting this vulnerability can lead to application crashes, data corruption, or unauthorized access to system resources, which can compromise the security and integrity of the application.
While limiting input size can serve as a temporary workaround, it is not a reliable long-term solution. Updating to the patched version is the best way to ensure security.
You can find more information about the gpsd package on its official repository or documentation pages, which provide insights into its features, usage, and updates.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for gpsd.
