Integer Overflow Vulnerability in libgit2: Denial of Service Risk
Summary
UBUNTU-CVE-2018-8098: Integer overflow in the index.c:read_entry() function while decompressing a compressed prefix length in libgit2 before v0.26.2 allows an attacker to cause a denial of service (out-of-bounds read) via a crafted repository... Affects libgit2 versions 0.19.0-2 – 0.19.0-2ubuntu0.4+esm1. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
libgit2 is a portable, pure C implementation of the Git core methods provided as a re-entrant library with a focus on performance and ease of use. It is widely used in various applications for version control and repository management. However, certain versions of libgit2 are vulnerable to an integer overflow issue that can lead to denial of service, making it critical for users to be aware of this vulnerability.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-8098 arises from an integer overflow in the index.c:read_entry() function of libgit2 prior to version 0.26.2. This flaw allows an attacker to exploit a crafted repository index file, leading to an out-of-bounds read and potentially causing a denial of service. The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 6.5, indicating a moderate risk level that could affect the stability and security of applications relying on this library.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
If immediate patching is not feasible, consider restricting access to the affected applications or services that utilize libgit2 until the update can be applied. Additionally, validate and sanitize any repository index files before processing them to mitigate potential exploitation.
Conclusion
The integer overflow vulnerability in libgit2 poses a significant risk to applications utilizing this library. Users are strongly encouraged to update to the latest patched versions to safeguard against potential denial of service attacks. Awareness and prompt action are key to maintaining application security.
See every vulnerability recorded for libgit2 →
FAQ
CVE-2018-8098 is a vulnerability in libgit2 that allows for denial of service due to an integer overflow in the index.c:read_entry() function.
Versions of libgit2 prior to 0.26.2 are affected by this vulnerability.
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Exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to denial of service, causing applications to crash or become unresponsive.
Restrict access to the affected applications and validate repository index files to prevent exploitation until a patch can be applied.
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