CVE-2019-11640 : What You Need to Know

A vulnerability has been detected in GNU recutils 1.8. The function rec_fex_parse_str_simple in librec.a's rec-fex.c file is prone to a heap-based buffer overflow.

Understanding CVE-2019-11640

An issue was discovered in GNU recutils 1.8. There is a heap-based buffer overflow in the function rec_fex_parse_str_simple at rec-fex.c in librec.a.

What is CVE-2019-11640?

CVE-2019-11640 is a vulnerability found in GNU recutils 1.8, specifically in the function rec_fex_parse_str_simple in librec.a's rec-fex.c file. This vulnerability can lead to a heap-based buffer overflow.

The Impact of CVE-2019-11640

The vulnerability could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service by crashing the application.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-11640

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability exists in the rec_fex_parse_str_simple function, leading to a heap-based buffer overflow in GNU recutils 1.8.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Version: GNU recutils 1.8

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by crafting a malicious input that triggers the buffer overflow, potentially allowing an attacker to execute arbitrary code.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update GNU recutils to the latest version to patch the vulnerability.
Avoid processing untrusted data with the affected function.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and libraries to mitigate known vulnerabilities.
Implement input validation and proper boundary checks in code to prevent buffer overflows.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates for GNU recutils to address known vulnerabilities.