Critical Integer Overflow Vulnerability in Vim Package - CVE-2023-4734
Summary
UBUNTU-CVE-2023-4734: Integer Overflow or Wraparound in GitHub repository vim/vim prior to 9.0.1846. Affects vim versions < 2:8.2.3995-1ubuntu2.13. Fixed in 2:8.2.3995-1ubuntu2.13. How to fix ↓
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Background
Vim is a highly configurable text editor built to enable efficient text editing. It is widely used among developers and system administrators for its powerful features and extensibility. The package version 2:8.2.3995-1ubuntu2.13, which is part of Ubuntu 22.04 LTS, has been identified to have a critical vulnerability that could lead to severe security risks.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-4734 is an integer overflow or wraparound issue present in the Vim package prior to version 9.0.1846. This flaw can be exploited by attackers to execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to unauthorized access or control over the affected system. The vulnerability arises from improper handling of integer values, which can result in unexpected behavior during execution.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
2:8.2.3995-1ubuntu2.13
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade vimTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can avoid using the affected features of Vim until the package is updated. However, the best course of action is to apply the update as soon as possible.
Conclusion
The CVE-2023-4734 vulnerability in the Vim package poses a significant security risk due to its potential for arbitrary code execution. Users are strongly advised to update their Vim installations to the latest patched version to mitigate this risk.
See every vulnerability recorded for vim →
FAQ
CVE-2023-4734 is a critical integer overflow vulnerability found in the Vim text editor that can lead to arbitrary code execution.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
Exploitation of this vulnerability can allow attackers to execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to unauthorized access or control over the system.
Yes, a patched version of the Vim package is available. Users should update to version 2:8.2.3995-1ubuntu2.13 or later.
The CVSS score for CVE-2023-4734 is 7.8, indicating a high severity level.
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