Email Module Vulnerability in Python Packages: CVE-2019-16056
Summary
UBUNTU-CVE-2019-16056: An issue was discovered in Python through 2.7.16, 3.x through 3.5.7, 3.6.x through 3.6.9, and 3.7.x through 3.7.4. Affects python2.7 versions < 2.7.6-8ubuntu0.6+esm3. Fixed in 2.7.6-8ubuntu0.6+esm3. How to fix ↓
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Background
Python is a widely-used high-level programming language known for its readability and versatility. It supports multiple programming paradigms and is utilized in various applications, from web development to data analysis. The affected packages include python2.7, python3.4, python3.5, and others, which are integral to running Python applications. This vulnerability affects the email module, which is responsible for parsing email addresses, potentially allowing malicious actors to exploit it.
Vulnerability Detail
An issue was discovered in Python through versions 2.7.16, 3.x through 3.5.7, 3.6.x through 3.6.9, and 3.7.x through 3.7.4. The email module incorrectly parses email addresses containing multiple '@' characters. This flaw could allow an application using the email module to accept an email address that should be denied, leading to potential security breaches similar to those described in CVE-2019-11340. The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 7.5, indicating a high severity level.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
2.7.6-8ubuntu0.6+esm3
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade python2.7Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary measure, avoid using the email module for parsing untrusted email addresses until the packages are updated. Implement additional validation checks on email addresses to ensure they conform to expected formats.
Conclusion
The CVE-2019-16056 vulnerability poses a significant risk to applications using the Python email module. It is crucial to update the affected packages to their patched versions to ensure the security of your applications. Additionally, utilizing tools like Vulert can help monitor and alert for such vulnerabilities in real-time.
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FAQ
CVE-2019-16056 is a vulnerability in the Python email module that allows for improper parsing of email addresses containing multiple '@' characters.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without any signup.
The vulnerability could allow attackers to exploit email parsing, leading to unauthorized access or manipulation of email-related functionalities in applications.
Yes, patched versions of the affected Python packages are available. It is recommended to update to these versions to mitigate the risk.
If immediate updates are not possible, implement additional validation checks on email addresses and avoid using the email module for untrusted inputs.
Related vulnerabilities
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