CVE-2019-9192 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

CVE-2019-9192, also known as the Uncontrolled Recursion vulnerability in the GNU C Library, affects versions up to 2.29. This CVE was published on February 26, 2019, and is disputed due to the software maintainer's argument that it is not a vulnerability.

Understanding CVE-2019-9192

This CVE involves a specific function within the GNU C Library that allows uncontrolled recursion, potentially leading to security issues.

What is CVE-2019-9192?

The Uncontrolled Recursion vulnerability exists in the check_dst_limits_calc_pos_1 function in the GNU C Library (glibc or libc6) versions up to 2.29. It can be triggered by using a crafted pattern in the grep command.

The Impact of CVE-2019-9192

The vulnerability can be exploited to cause unexpected behavior or denial of service in affected systems.
It is a separate issue from CVE-2018-20796, although they share similarities in the affected function.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-9192

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The Uncontrolled Recursion vulnerability in the GNU C Library allows for unexpected behavior when a specially crafted pattern is used in the grep command.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects GNU C Library versions up to 2.29.
Systems using these versions are at risk of exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be triggered by utilizing the pattern '(|)(\1\1)*' in the grep command.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-9192 involves immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Monitor vendor updates and patches related to the GNU C Library.
Implement strict input validation to prevent crafted patterns from triggering the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and libraries to patched versions.
Conduct security audits to identify and address potential vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by the GNU C Library maintainers to address the Uncontrolled Recursion vulnerability.