Critical Regression in python-pip Package: USN-5821-4 Update
Summary
USN-5821-4: python-pip regression. Affects python-pip versions < 1.5.4-1ubuntu4+esm4. Fixed in 1.5.4-1ubuntu4+esm4. How to fix ↓
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Background
The python-pip package is a widely used tool for installing and managing Python packages. It simplifies the process of package management in Python environments, allowing users to easily install, upgrade, and remove packages from the Python Package Index (PyPI). This package is essential for developers working with Python, as it provides a straightforward command-line interface for package management. However, vulnerabilities in this package can lead to significant security risks, including denial of service attacks.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability addressed in USN-5821-4 was discovered by Sebastian Chnelik, who found that the wheel component of pip incorrectly handled certain file names when validated against a regex expression. This flaw could potentially allow an attacker to exploit the vulnerability, leading to a denial of service condition. The issue arose from a minor regression introduced in previous updates, affecting Ubuntu 14.04 ESM, Ubuntu 16.04 ESM, and Ubuntu 18.04 LTS.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
1.5.4-1ubuntu4+esm4
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade python-pipTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
If immediate patching is not possible, users can mitigate the risk by avoiding the use of vulnerable features in the pip package until the update is applied. Additionally, monitoring for unusual activity in applications that utilize pip can help identify potential exploitation attempts.
Conclusion
The USN-5821-4 update addresses a critical regression in the python-pip package that could lead to denial of service. Users are urged to update their packages to the latest versions to mitigate this vulnerability. For those unable to update immediately, monitoring and avoiding vulnerable features is recommended.
See every vulnerability recorded for python-pip →
FAQ
The vulnerability involves a regression that affects how certain file names are validated, potentially leading to denial of service.
The affected versions include python-pip versions prior to the patched versions: 1.5.4-1ubuntu4+esm4 for Ubuntu 14.04, 8.1.1-2ubuntu0.6+esm5 for Ubuntu 16.04, and 9.0.1-2.3~ubuntu1.18.04.8 for Ubuntu 18.04.
You can use Vulert, which monitors open-source vulnerabilities in your software using a manifest file like package-lock.json. Visit Vulert Scanner to check your application without needing to sign up.
If you cannot update right away, avoid using the vulnerable features of the pip package and monitor your applications for any unusual activity.
The updates for Ubuntu 18.04 LTS are available without a subscription, while the updates for Ubuntu 14.04 ESM and 16.04 ESM require an Ubuntu Pro subscription.
References
Related vulnerabilities
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