RHSA-2009:1178: Moderate: python security update

Published Jul 27, 2009
·
Updated

Python is an interpreted, interactive, object-oriented programminglanguage.When the assert() system call was disabled, an input sanitization flaw wasrevealed in the Python string object implementation that led to a bufferoverflow. The missing check for negative size values meant the Pythonmemory allocator could allocate less memory than expected. This couldresult in arbitrary code execution with the Python interpreter'sprivileges. (CVE-2008-1887)Multiple buffer and integer overflow flaws were found in the Python Unicodestring processing and in the Python Unicode and string objectimplementations. An attacker could use these flaws to cause a denial ofservice (Python application crash). (CVE-2008-3142, CVE-2008-5031)Multiple integer overflow flaws were found in the Python imageop module. Ifa Python application used the imageop module to process untrusted images,it could cause the application to crash or, potentially, execute arbitrarycode with the Python interpreter's privileges. (CVE-2008-1679,CVE-2008-4864)Multiple integer underflow and overflow flaws were found in the Pythonsnprintf() wrapper implementation. An attacker could use these flaws tocause a denial of service (memory corruption). (CVE-2008-3144)Multiple integer overflow flaws were found in various Python modules. Anattacker could use these flaws to cause a denial of service (Pythonapplication crash). (CVE-2008-2315, CVE-2008-3143)Red Hat would like to thank David Remahl of the Apple Product Security teamfor responsibly reporting the CVE-2008-1679 and CVE-2008-2315 issues.All Python users should upgrade to these updated packages, which containbackported patches to correct these issues.

Affected Software

1 affected component
Python Software Foundation Python

Remediation

Event History

Jul 27, 2009
Advisory Published
12:00 AM
Data Sourced
12:00 AM
RemedyDescriptionAffected Software

Frequently Asked Questions

1

What is the severity of RHSA-2009:1178?

The vulnerability RHSA-2009:1178 is categorized as critical due to the buffer overflow in Python's string object implementation.

2

How do I fix RHSA-2009:1178?

To address RHSA-2009:1178, it is recommended to apply the appropriate patches or updates provided by your software vendor.

3

What systems are affected by RHSA-2009:1178?

RHSA-2009:1178 affects installations of Python that lack proper input sanitization and fail to handle disabled assert() calls effectively.

4

What types of attacks can exploit RHSA-2009:1178?

RHSA-2009:1178 can potentially be exploited by attackers to execute arbitrary code or gain unauthorized access due to the buffer overflow.

5

When was RHSA-2009:1178 reported?

RHSA-2009:1178 was reported in 2009, highlighting a significant vulnerability in Python that required immediate attention.

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