Critical Security Flaw in GVFS: Heap-Based Buffer Overflow and Socket Ownership Race
Summary
RLSA-2026:73998: Important: gvfs security update. Affects gvfs versions < 0:1.54.4-4.el10_2.1. Fixed in 0:1.54.4-4.el10_2.1. How to fix ↓
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Background
GVFS, or GNOME Virtual File System, is a crucial component of the GNOME desktop environment that facilitates seamless access to both local and remote data through various protocols such as FTP, SFTP, WebDAV, CIFS, and SMB. It integrates with the GNOME I/O (GIO) abstraction layer, providing users with a unified interface for file management. However, recent vulnerabilities have been identified that could compromise system security.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerabilities in GVFS include a heap-based buffer overflow in the read_reply() function, which can lead to arbitrary code execution, and a socket ownership race condition that allows local users to gain root privileges. These vulnerabilities stem from improper handling of data and synchronization issues within the software, posing significant risks to system integrity and user data.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
0:1.54.4-4.el10_2.1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo dnf update gvfsTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary measure, users can limit access to the affected GVFS components or disable the use of SFTP and other vulnerable protocols until the package is updated. However, this is not a permanent solution and should only be used until the patch is applied.
Conclusion
The identified vulnerabilities in GVFS pose significant risks to system security, allowing for potential arbitrary code execution and local root access. It is crucial for users to update their GVFS packages to the latest version to mitigate these risks effectively.
See every vulnerability recorded for gvfs →
FAQ
GVFS is the GNOME Virtual File System that allows users to access local and remote files through various protocols.
The vulnerabilities include a heap-based buffer overflow and a socket ownership race that could allow local users to gain root access.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without any signup.
The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 8.8, indicating a high severity level.
You can update GVFS by running the command 'sudo dnf update gvfs' in your terminal.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for gvfs.
