Pidgin XML Content Processing Out-of-Bounds Write Denial of Service Vulnerability [CVE-2017-2640]
CVE Number – CVE-2017-2640
A vulnerability in Pidgin could allow an authenticated, remote attacker to cause a denial of service (DoS) condition or execute arbitrary code on a targeted system.
The vulnerability is due to improper processing of XML content by the affected software. An attacker could exploit the vulnerability by sending crafted instant messages to the targeted user. A successful exploit could cause an out-of-bounds error and allow the attacker to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges or cause a system crash, resulting in a DoS condition.
Pidgin has confirmed the vulnerability and released software updates.
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To exploit this vulnerability, an attacker must send an instant message that submits malicious input to the targeted system, making exploitation more difficult in environments that restrict network access from untrusted sources.
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Administrators are advised to apply the appropriate updates.
Administrators are advised to allow only trusted users to have network access.
Administrators are advised to monitor affected systems.
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Pidgin has released a security advisory at the following link: Out-of-bounds write
Red Hat has released a security advisory for bug 1430019 at the following link: RHSA-2017:1854
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Pidgin has released updated software at the following link: Pidgin 2.12.0 and later
Duncan is a technology professional with over 20 years experience of working in various IT roles. He has a interest in cyber security, and has a wide range of other skills in radio, electronics and telecommunications.