A heap-based buffer overflow in the Newt library might allow remote, user-assisted attackers to execute arbitrary code.
| Package | Arch | Vulnerable | Unaffected |
|---|---|---|---|
| dev-libs/newt | * | < 0.52.10-r1 | >= 0.52.10-r1 |
Newt is a library for displaying text mode user interfaces.
Miroslav Lichvar reported that Newt is prone to a heap-based buffer overflow in textbox.c.
A remote attacker could entice a user to enter a specially crafted string into a text dialog box rendered by Newt, possibly resulting in the remote execution of arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running the application, or a Denial of Service condition.
There is no known workaround at this time.
All Newt users should upgrade to the latest version:
# emerge --sync # emerge --ask --oneshot --verbose ">=dev-libs/newt-0.52.10-r1"
NOTE: This is a legacy GLSA. Updates for all affected architectures are available since October 26, 2009. It is likely that your system is already no longer affected by this issue.