CVE-2017-18266 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2017-18266, a vulnerability in xdg-utils that could enable remote attackers to conduct argument-injection attacks through manipulated URLs. Find out how to mitigate this security risk.
CVE-2017-18266, published on May 10, 2018, addresses a vulnerability in xdg-utils that could allow remote attackers to conduct argument-injection attacks through a manipulated URL.
Understanding CVE-2017-18266
This CVE entry highlights a security flaw in the open_envvar function within xdg-open, specifically in versions prior to 1.1.3.
What is CVE-2017-18266?
The open_envvar function in xdg-open within xdg-utils before version 1.1.3 lacks proper validation of strings before executing the program indicated by the BROWSER environment variable. This oversight could potentially enable remote attackers to carry out argument-injection attacks through a manipulated URL.
The Impact of CVE-2017-18266
The vulnerability could allow remote attackers to manipulate the BROWSER environment variable, leading to argument-injection attacks via crafted URLs.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-18266
This section delves into the specifics of the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The open_envvar function in xdg-open in xdg-utils before version 1.1.3 does not validate strings before launching the program specified by the BROWSER environment variable, potentially enabling argument-injection attacks via a crafted URL.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Not applicable
- Vendor: Not applicable
- Versions affected: Not applicable
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability could be exploited by remote attackers through a manipulated URL, leveraging the %s in the BROWSER environment variable.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protective measures and actions to mitigate the CVE-2017-18266 vulnerability.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update xdg-utils to version 1.1.3 or newer to address the vulnerability.
- Avoid clicking on suspicious or untrusted URLs to prevent potential exploitation.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and utilities to the latest versions to patch known vulnerabilities.
- Implement URL filtering and validation mechanisms to prevent malicious URL exploitation.
Patching and Updates
Ensure timely application of security patches and updates to all relevant software components to mitigate potential risks.