CVE-2016-2073: Buffer Overflow

Published Jan 26, 2016
·
Updated

An out-of-bounds read flaw was reported in libxml2's htmlParseNameComplex() function:

http://seclists.org/oss-sec/2016/q1/199

A remote attacker could provide a specially crafted XML file that, when processed by an application linked against libxml2, could cause the application to disclose crash.

Other sources

The htmlParseNameComplex function in HTMLparser.c in libxml2 allows attackers to cause a denial of service (out-of-bounds read) via a crafted XML document.

Affected Software

7 affected componentsFixes available
debian/libxml2
2.9.4+dfsg1-7+deb10u42.9.4+dfsg1-7+deb10u62.9.10+dfsg-6.7+deb11u42.9.14+dfsg-1.3~deb12u12.9.14+dfsg-1.3
Xmlsoft Libxml2<2.9.4
Debian Debian Linux=8.0
Canonical Ubuntu Linux=12.04
Canonical Ubuntu Linux=14.04
Canonical Ubuntu Linux=15.10
Canonical Ubuntu Linux=16.04

Event History

Jan 26, 2016
Data Sourced
12:02 PM
DescriptionSeverityAffected Software
Feb 12, 2016
CVE Published
via MITRE·03:26 PM
Data Sourced
via MITRE·03:26 PM
Description

Frequently Asked Questions

1

What is the severity of CVE-2016-2073?

CVE-2016-2073 has a moderate severity level due to the potential for an out-of-bounds read that could be exploited by a remote attacker.

2

How do I fix CVE-2016-2073?

To fix CVE-2016-2073, update libxml2 to a secure version, specifically versions 2.9.4+dfsg1-7+deb10u4, 2.9.4+dfsg1-7+deb10u6, or newer.

3

Which systems are affected by CVE-2016-2073?

CVE-2016-2073 affects multiple systems, including Debian 8.0 and various versions of Ubuntu Linux.

4

What is the cause of CVE-2016-2073?

CVE-2016-2073 is caused by an out-of-bounds read flaw in the htmlParseNameComplex() function of libxml2.

5

Can CVE-2016-2073 lead to data breaches?

While CVE-2016-2073 primarily presents a risk of denial of service, it may also lead to information leakage in certain scenarios.

Contact

SecAlerts Pty Ltd.
132 Wickham Terrace
Fortitude Valley,
QLD 4006, Australia
info@secalerts.co
By using SecAlerts services, you agree to our services end-user license agreement. This website is safeguarded by reCAPTCHA and governed by the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. All names, logos, and brands of products are owned by their respective owners, and any usage of these names, logos, and brands for identification purposes only does not imply endorsement. If you possess any content that requires removal, please get in touch with us.
© 2026 SecAlerts Pty Ltd.
ABN: 70 645 966 203, ACN: 645 966 203