Moderate Security Update for xmlrpc-c Package: Addressing XML Entity Expansion Depth Vulnerability
Summary
ALSA-2025:4048: Moderate: xmlrpc-c security update. Affects xmlrpc-c versions < 1.51.0-11.el8_10. Fixed in 1.51.0-11.el8_10. How to fix ↓
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Background
The xmlrpc-c package provides a network protocol that enables client programs to perform remote procedure calls (RPC) over the Internet using XML and HTTP. It is widely used for its simplicity and effectiveness in enabling communication between different systems. However, vulnerabilities in this package can lead to significant security risks, particularly concerning XML processing.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-8176 in the xmlrpc-c package is due to an improper restriction of XML entity expansion depth in the libexpat library. This flaw can be exploited by attackers to perform denial-of-service attacks or potentially execute arbitrary code by sending specially crafted XML requests that exceed the allowed entity expansion depth, leading to resource exhaustion or application crashes.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
1.51.0-11.el8_10
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo dnf update xmlrpc-cTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
If immediate updating is not feasible, consider implementing input validation to limit the size and complexity of XML requests processed by the application. This can help mitigate the risk of exploitation until the package is updated.
Conclusion
The xmlrpc-c package has a moderate vulnerability (CVE-2024-8176) that requires immediate attention. Users are advised to update to the latest patched version to ensure the security and stability of their applications. Implementing workarounds can provide temporary relief until the update is applied.
See every vulnerability recorded for xmlrpc-c →
FAQ
CVE-2024-8176 is a vulnerability in the xmlrpc-c package that allows attackers to exploit improper restrictions on XML entity expansion depth, potentially leading to denial-of-service attacks.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
Failure to address this vulnerability may lead to application crashes, denial-of-service conditions, or even remote code execution, compromising the security of your system.
Yes, implementing input validation to limit the size and complexity of XML requests can help mitigate the risk until the package is updated.
More information about the xmlrpc-c package and its vulnerabilities can be found on the official GitHub repository or through security advisories related to AlmaLinux.
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