CVE-2019-7443 : Security Advisory and Response

KDE KAuth, prior to version 5.55, has a vulnerability that allows passing parameters with various types to helpers running with root privileges over DBus through DBusHelperProxy.cpp. This can lead to crashes or parsing of arbitrary images using dynamically loaded plugins, enabling execution of plugin code as root.

Understanding CVE-2019-7443

KDE KAuth before version 5.55 allows passing parameters with arbitrary types to helpers running as root over DBus via DBusHelperProxy.cpp. This unintentionally allows plugin code to run as root, increasing the severity of potential exploitation.

What is CVE-2019-7443?

KDE KAuth vulnerability before version 5.55
Allows passing parameters with various types to helpers running with root privileges over DBus
Can result in crashes or parsing of arbitrary images using dynamically loaded plugins

The Impact of CVE-2019-7443

Enables execution of plugin code as root, amplifying the impact of any potential exploitation

Technical Details of CVE-2019-7443

KDE KAuth vulnerability details

Vulnerability Description

Parameters with arbitrary types can be passed to helpers running as root over DBus
Certain types can cause crashes and trigger the decoding of arbitrary images with dynamically loaded plugins

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected systems: KDE KAuth before version 5.55
Vulnerable versions: Prior to version 5.55

Exploitation Mechanism

Passing parameters with various types to helpers running with root privileges over DBus
Execution of plugin code as root, increasing the severity of exploitation

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to address CVE-2019-7443

Immediate Steps to Take

Update KDE KAuth to version 5.55 or newer
Monitor for any unusual activities on the system

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and apply security patches
Implement the principle of least privilege to limit root access

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by KDE to fix the vulnerability