Critical Security Update for shadow-utils: Addressing CVE-2024-56433
Summary
RHSA-2025:20559: Red Hat Security Advisory: shadow-utils security update. Affects shadow-utils versions < 2:4.9-15.el9. Fixed in 2:4.9-15.el9. How to fix ↓
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Background
The shadow-utils package is a collection of utilities for managing user accounts and groups in Unix-like operating systems. It provides essential functionalities such as user and group management, password handling, and account administration. This package is crucial for system security and user management, making it a vital component of the Red Hat Enterprise Linux ecosystem. However, it has been identified to contain a vulnerability that could potentially compromise system security.
Vulnerability Detail
CVE-2024-56433 is a security vulnerability found in the shadow-utils package, which allows for unauthorized access or manipulation of user account information. This vulnerability arises from improper handling of user input, which could lead to privilege escalation or unauthorized access to sensitive data. If exploited, an attacker could gain elevated privileges, potentially leading to system compromise. The vulnerability has been assigned a CVSS score of 3.6, indicating a moderate severity level, but it should not be underestimated due to the potential impact on system integrity and confidentiality.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
2:4.9-15.el9
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo dnf update shadow-utilsTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can restrict access to the affected utilities until the package is updated. This can be done by modifying file permissions or using access control lists (ACLs) to limit who can execute the shadow-utils commands.
Conclusion
The shadow-utils package has a critical vulnerability (CVE-2024-56433) that requires immediate attention. Users are advised to update to the patched version to mitigate potential risks. Temporary workarounds can be implemented, but the best course of action is to apply the update as soon as possible to ensure system security.
See every vulnerability recorded for shadow-utils →
FAQ
CVE-2024-56433 is a security vulnerability in the shadow-utils package that could allow unauthorized access to user account information.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
If an immediate update is not possible, consider restricting access to the affected utilities as a temporary measure.
Failure to address this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access, privilege escalation, and potential system compromise.
More information about the shadow-utils package can be found in the official Red Hat documentation and security advisories.
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