CVE-2019-11638 : Security Advisory and Response

In GNU recutils version 1.8, a vulnerability has been identified in the function rec_field_name_equal_p in librec.a, specifically in rec-field-name.c, leading to a crash due to a NULL pointer dereference.

Understanding CVE-2019-11638

What is CVE-2019-11638?

This CVE refers to a NULL pointer dereference vulnerability in GNU recutils version 1.8, specifically in the function rec_field_name_equal_p in librec.a.

The Impact of CVE-2019-11638

The vulnerability can be exploited to cause a crash, potentially leading to denial of service or other security implications.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-11638

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises from a NULL pointer dereference in the rec_field_name_equal_p function in librec.a, rec-field-name.c.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Version: GNU recutils 1.8

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by triggering the specific function with crafted input, causing a crash due to the NULL pointer dereference.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update to a patched version of GNU recutils to mitigate the vulnerability.
Avoid processing untrusted data with the affected function.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software to the latest versions to address known vulnerabilities.
Implement secure coding practices to prevent NULL pointer dereference issues.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by the software vendor to fix the vulnerability.