CVE-2014-10072

In utils.c in zsh before 5.0.6, there is a buffer overflow when scanning very long directory paths for symbolic links

published February 27, 2018

CVSS
—
EPSS
3%
Percentile
85.0
In the wild
Unconfirmed
What it is

⚠️ A pesky buffer overflow lurking in zsh can trip you up when scanning super long directory paths! Think of it like a delivery truck trying to navigate a narrow alley with an oversized package — if it can't turn around in time, it could cause a huge pileup! If an attacker can exploit this overflow, they might gain control over the system processes or crash the shell entirely — it's not an everyday catastrophe, but it could cause chaos if you're relying on zsh in critical moments!

Put simply

Think of it like a delivery truck trying to navigate a narrow alley with an oversized package — if it can't turn around in time, it could cause a huge pileup! This vulnerability in zsh before version 5.0.6 allows for a buffer overflow when the shell scans for symbolic links in lengthy directory paths, potentially leading to memory corruption.

What to do

If an attacker can exploit this overflow, they might gain control over the system processes or crash the shell entirely — it's not an everyday catastrophe, but it could cause chaos if you're relying on zsh in critical moments! Upgrade to zsh version 5.0.6 or later to patch this vulnerability. Regularly monitor for updates and encourage a review of user permissions to ensure only trusted users operate within the shell. You’ve got this! Keeping your zsh updated will ensure your shell stays safe and sound. 🛡️

The record
Technical detail
CVSS
Not scored
CVSS v4.0
Not supplied
EPSS
0.02586 · 85.0th percentile
Published
2018-02-27T22:00Z
EPSS history
Timeline
  • 27 FEB 22:00Z
    In utils.c in zsh before 5.0.6, there is a buffer overflow when scanning very long directory paths for symbolic links
    cvelistv5