CVE-2020-19188 : Security Advisory and Response

A Buffer Overflow vulnerability in the fmt_entry function in progs/dump_entry.c:1116 in ncurses 6.1 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service via a crafted command.

Understanding CVE-2020-19188

This CVE involves a specific vulnerability in the ncurses library that can be exploited remotely to trigger a denial of service attack.

What is CVE-2020-19188?

The CVE-2020-19188 is a Buffer Overflow vulnerability found in the fmt_entry function within the ncurses library version 6.1. This flaw can be abused by malicious actors to disrupt the normal operation of systems by sending specially crafted commands.

The Impact of CVE-2020-19188

The exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to a denial of service condition, causing affected systems to become unresponsive or crash, potentially disrupting critical operations.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-19188

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

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability exists in the fmt_entry function in progs/dump_entry.c:1116 in ncurses 6.1, allowing remote attackers to exploit a buffer overflow issue.

Affected Systems and Versions

Vendor: n/a
Product: n/a
Versions: All versions are affected.

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited remotely by sending specifically crafted commands to the vulnerable fmt_entry function, triggering a buffer overflow and leading to a denial of service.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-19188 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor patches or updates promptly to address the vulnerability.
Implement network security measures to restrict access to vulnerable components.
Monitor network traffic for any signs of exploitation attempts.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to mitigate known vulnerabilities.
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address weaknesses.
Educate users and IT staff on best practices for secure coding and system configuration.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that the ncurses library is updated to a patched version that addresses the Buffer Overflow vulnerability.