CVE-2019-18603 : Security Advisory and Response

OpenAFS before version 1.6.24 and between 1.8.x and 1.8.5 may experience information leakage due to uninitialized RPC output variables transmitted over the network during specific error conditions.

Understanding CVE-2019-18603

OpenAFS vulnerability leading to potential information leakage.

What is CVE-2019-18603?

OpenAFS versions prior to 1.6.24 and between 1.8.x and 1.8.5 are susceptible to information leakage when uninitialized RPC output variables are sent over the network during specific error scenarios.

The Impact of CVE-2019-18603

This vulnerability could allow an attacker to potentially access sensitive information due to the transmission of uninitialized RPC output variables over the network during error conditions.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-18603

Details of the vulnerability in OpenAFS.

Vulnerability Description

OpenAFS versions before 1.6.24 and 1.8.x to 1.8.5 are prone to information leakage as uninitialized RPC output variables are sent over the network during specific error conditions.

Affected Systems and Versions

OpenAFS versions before 1.6.24
OpenAFS versions between 1.8.x and 1.8.5

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability occurs when uninitialized RPC output variables are transmitted to a peer over the network during specific error conditions.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to mitigate and prevent exploitation of CVE-2019-18603.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update OpenAFS to version 1.6.24 or above if using a version prior to this release.
For versions between 1.8.x and 1.8.5, apply the necessary security patches provided by OpenAFS.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor for security updates and patches from OpenAFS.
Implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure to potential attacks.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security updates and patches released by OpenAFS to address the information leakage vulnerability.