CVE-2017-12185 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2017-12185, a vulnerability in xorg-x11-server that could allow a malicious X client to crash the X server or execute unauthorized code. Find out how to mitigate and prevent this issue.
CVE-2017-12185, related to xorg-x11-server, exposes a vulnerability that could allow a malicious X client to crash the X server or execute unauthorized code.
Understanding CVE-2017-12185
What is CVE-2017-12185?
The version of xorg-x11-server before 1.19.5 lacked proper length validation in the MIT-SCREEN-SAVER extension, enabling a malicious X client to disrupt the X server's operation or potentially run unauthorized code.
The Impact of CVE-2017-12185
This vulnerability could lead to a crash of the X server or unauthorized code execution by a malicious X client.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-12185
Vulnerability Description
The xorg-x11-server version prior to 1.19.5 lacked proper length validation in the MIT-SCREEN-SAVER extension, allowing malicious X clients to disrupt the X server or execute unauthorized code.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Not applicable
- Vendor: Not applicable
- Versions: All versions prior to 1.19.5
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability could be exploited by a malicious X client to crash the X server or potentially execute unauthorized code.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update xorg-x11-server to version 1.19.5 or later.
- Monitor for any unusual X server behavior.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software to the latest versions.
- Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.
Patching and Updates
Apply patches and updates provided by the xorg-x11-server vendor to address this vulnerability.