CVE-2019-19240 : What You Need to Know

GoAhead version prior to 5.0.1 mishandles redirected HTTP requests with a large Host header, potentially exposing uninitialized data in responses.

Understanding CVE-2019-19240

This CVE describes a vulnerability in the GoAhead web server software that can be exploited through redirected HTTP requests with long Host headers.

What is CVE-2019-19240?

The flaw in GoAhead version prior to 5.0.1 allows attackers to overwhelm the fixed host buffer, leading to uninitialized data exposure in responses.

The Impact of CVE-2019-19240

The vulnerability can be exploited to leak uninitialized data in responses, potentially exposing sensitive information to attackers.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-19240

The technical aspects of the vulnerability in GoAhead version prior to 5.0.1.

Vulnerability Description

GoAhead WebsRedirect feature uses a fixed host buffer of limited size
Overwhelming the buffer can cause the copying of the Host header to fail
This leaves the buffer uninitialized, potentially exposing uninitialized data in responses

Affected Systems and Versions

GoAhead versions prior to 5.0.1

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers craft redirected HTTP requests with long Host headers to trigger the vulnerability

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to mitigate and prevent exploitation of CVE-2019-19240.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update GoAhead to version 5.0.1 or later to patch the vulnerability
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and apply security patches promptly
Implement network security measures to detect and prevent similar vulnerabilities

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of software updates and security patches to protect against known vulnerabilities