CVE-2018-16873 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2018-16873, a critical vulnerability in GoLang versions 1.10.6 and 1.11.3. Understand the impact, affected systems, exploitation mechanism, and mitigation steps.
CVE-2018-16873, published on December 14, 2018, highlights a vulnerability in versions of Go prior to 1.10.6 and 1.11.x before 1.11.3. The vulnerability affects the "go get" command and can lead to remote code execution under specific conditions.
Understanding CVE-2018-16873
This CVE identifies a critical vulnerability in the Go programming language that could allow an attacker to execute malicious code remotely.
What is CVE-2018-16873?
In versions of Go before 1.10.6 and 1.11.x before 1.11.3, the vulnerability in the "go get" command arises when the command is run with the -u flag and the import path of a Go package that is either malicious itself or imports a malicious package directly or indirectly. It is important to note that this vulnerability only exists in GOPATH mode and not in module mode.
The Impact of CVE-2018-16873
The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 7.5, indicating a high severity level. It can lead to remote code execution, posing risks to confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-16873
This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows remote code execution when the "go get" command is used with specific parameters and under certain conditions, enabling an attacker to execute malicious commands on the system.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: GoLang
- Versions: 1.10.6, 1.11.3
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attack Complexity: High
- Attack Vector: Network
- Privileges Required: None
- User Interaction: Required
- Scope: Unchanged
- Availability Impact: High
- Confidentiality Impact: High
- Integrity Impact: High
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2018-16873 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update GoLang to version 1.10.6 or 1.11.3 to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Avoid using the "go get" command with the -u flag in GOPATH mode.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Follow secure coding practices to prevent the introduction of malicious code.
- Regularly monitor and update dependencies to address security vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
- Apply patches provided by the GoLang community to address the vulnerability.