Heap-based Buffer Overflow in Vim Package: CVE-2021-4019
Summary
UBUNTU-CVE-2021-4019: vim is vulnerable to Heap-based Buffer Overflow. Affects vim versions < 2:7.4.052-1ubuntu3.1+esm17. Fixed in 2:7.4.052-1ubuntu3.1+esm17. 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 for programming and general text manipulation due to its powerful features and extensibility. The package is available across various Linux distributions, including Ubuntu, and is known for its versatility and support for numerous programming languages. However, it has been identified to have a critical vulnerability that could lead to severe security implications.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-4019 is a heap-based buffer overflow in the Vim text editor. This flaw arises from improper handling of memory allocation, which can be exploited by an attacker to execute arbitrary code or crash the application. The potential ramifications include unauthorized access to system resources, data corruption, and denial of service. The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 7.8, indicating a high severity level that necessitates immediate attention.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
2:7.4.052-1ubuntu3.1+esm17
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 limit the use of Vim for untrusted files or disable certain features that may trigger the vulnerability until a patch is applied.
Conclusion
The CVE-2021-4019 vulnerability in the Vim package poses significant security risks due to its potential for exploitation through heap-based buffer overflow. Users are strongly advised to update their Vim installations to the latest patched versions to mitigate these risks. For those unable to update immediately, temporary workarounds are available to reduce exposure.
See every vulnerability recorded for vim →
FAQ
CVE-2021-4019 is a vulnerability in the Vim text editor that allows for a heap-based buffer overflow, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution.
You can check your version of Vim by running 'vim --version' in the terminal. Compare it against the affected versions listed in the vulnerability report.
If an immediate update is not possible, consider using Vim only for trusted files and disabling features that may expose the vulnerability.
Detailed information about CVE-2021-4019 can be found in the Ubuntu Security Notices and on vulnerability databases like Vulert.
Vulert allows users to monitor open-source vulnerabilities in their software by analyzing a manifest file like package-lock.json, providing real-time alerts without requiring installation.
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