CVE-2017-5188 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2017-5188, a vulnerability in open build service that allowed access to sensitive information via relative symlinks. Find out the impact, affected systems, and mitigation steps.
In previous versions of the open build service, the bs_worker code would read relative symlinks, potentially leading to the disclosure of sensitive information. The issue was addressed on 20170320 to prevent this leakage of private data.
Understanding CVE-2017-5188
What is CVE-2017-5188?
The CVE-2017-5188 vulnerability in the open build service allowed the bs_worker code to read relative symlinks, potentially exposing sensitive information during the build process.
The Impact of CVE-2017-5188
The vulnerability could lead to the disclosure of sensitive information as the code could access files from outside the package source directory.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-5188
Vulnerability Description
The bs_worker code in the open build service before 20170320 followed relative symlinks, allowing the reading of files outside the package source directory, potentially leaking private information.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: open build service
- Vendor: openSUSE
- Versions affected: unspecified version before 20170320
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attack Complexity: Low
- Attack Vector: Local
- Confidentiality Impact: High
- User Interaction: Required
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update the open build service to version 20170320 or later.
- Monitor and restrict access to sensitive directories.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly review and update symlink handling in code.
- Implement file access controls to prevent unauthorized access.
Patching and Updates
- Apply patches and updates provided by openSUSE to address the vulnerability.