CVE-2005-3120

Stack-based buffer overflow in the HTrjis function in Lynx 2.8.6 and earlier allows remote NNTP servers to execute arbitrary code via certain article headers…

published October 17, 2005

CVSS
—
EPSS
23%
Percentile
97.8
In the wild
Unconfirmed
What it is

⚠️ A sneaky stack-based buffer overflow in Lynx 2.8.6 and earlier could let remote servers run arbitrary code by slipping crafty article headers with Asian characters! Think of Lynx as a chef in a tiny kitchen; if someone hands them a recipe (or article header) that includes exotic ingredients (like those extra escape characters), it could cause a kitchen explosion! 🍳 If exploited, an attacker could potentially gain control of the Lynx client, allowing them to execute any code they desire. This could lead to unauthorized access or even complete takeover of the affected system, turning a harmless browsing session into a recipe for disaster!

Put simply

Think of Lynx as a chef in a tiny kitchen; if someone hands them a recipe (or article header) that includes exotic ingredients (like those extra escape characters), it could cause a kitchen explosion! 🍳 The vulnerability arises in the HTrjis function, where the overflow occurs due to improperly handled input from NNTP servers, allowing the insertion of unexpected escape characters that disrupt normal operation.

What to do

If exploited, an attacker could potentially gain control of the Lynx client, allowing them to execute any code they desire. This could lead to unauthorized access or even complete takeover of the affected system, turning a harmless browsing session into a recipe for disaster! To protect yourself, upgrade Lynx to version 2.8.6.1 or later. Also, consider implementing input validation to ensure that no unexpected characters are processed. Regularly check for updates to stay ahead of potential vulnerabilities! You've got this! Keep your software updated, and you'll maintain your security hero status! 🦸

The record
Technical detail
CVSS
Not scored
CVSS v4.0
Not supplied
EPSS
0.23257 · 97.8th percentile
Published
2005-10-17T04:00Z
EPSS history
Timeline
  • 17 OCT 04:00Z
    Stack-based buffer overflow in the HTrjis function in Lynx 2.8.6 and earlier allows remote NNTP servers to execute arbitrary code via certain article headers…
    cvelistv5