CVE-2020-35357 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2020-35357, a buffer overflow flaw in GNU Scientific Library (GSL) versions 2.5 and 2.6, allowing arbitrary code execution. Find mitigation steps and update information here.
A buffer overflow vulnerability in the GNU Scientific Library (GSL) versions 2.5 and 2.6 could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code or cause application termination.
Understanding CVE-2020-35357
What is CVE-2020-35357?
The vulnerability arises when calculating quantile values using GSL's Statistics Library, potentially triggered by malicious input data for gsl_stats_quantile_from_sorted_data.
The Impact of CVE-2020-35357
Exploiting this vulnerability could result in unexpected application termination or the execution of arbitrary code, posing a significant security risk.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-35357
Vulnerability Description
A buffer overflow can occur during quantile value calculation in GSL versions 2.5 and 2.6, leading to potential code execution or application termination.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Vendor: n/a
- Product: n/a
- Versions: 2.5 and 2.6
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by processing specially crafted input data for gsl_stats_quantile_from_sorted_data, triggering the buffer overflow.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply the security update provided by GSL promptly.
- Monitor vendor security advisories for any patches or workarounds.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and libraries to patched versions.
- Implement input validation mechanisms to prevent buffer overflow vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
- Update GSL to versions that contain fixes for the buffer overflow vulnerability.