CVE-2021-41055 : What You Need to Know

Gajim 1.2.x and 1.3.x before 1.3.3 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (crash) via a crafted XMPP Last Message Correction (XEP-0308) message in multi-user chat, where the message ID equals the correction ID.

Understanding CVE-2021-41055

This CVE relates to a vulnerability in Gajim versions 1.2.x and 1.3.x that could be exploited by remote attackers, leading to a denial of service.

What is CVE-2021-41055?

The vulnerability allows attackers to trigger a crash in Gajim by sending a specially crafted XMPP Last Message Correction message in a multi-user chat scenario. If the message ID matches the correction ID, the crash occurs.

The Impact of CVE-2021-41055

This vulnerability can result in a denial of service, disrupting the normal operation of the affected Gajim software.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-41055

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

Vulnerability Type: Denial of Service (Crash)
Vulnerable Versions: Gajim 1.2.x and 1.3.x (before 1.3.3)
Vulnerability Cause: Crafted XMPP Last Message Correction message

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Systems: Gajim 1.2.x and 1.3.x
Versions Prone to Attack: Gajim versions before 1.3.3

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Vector: Remote
Attack Type: Send crafted XMPP message
Condition: Matching message ID and correction ID

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems against CVE-2021-41055 by following these security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update to Gajim version 1.3.3 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Avoid accepting messages with matching message and correction IDs from untrusted sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software to the latest versions to patch known vulnerabilities.
Educate users on safe communication practices in multi-user chat environments.

Patching and Updates

Keep Gajim and related software up to date with security patches to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities.