CVE-2016-8606

The REPL server (--listen) in GNU Guile 2.0.12 allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code via an HTTP inter-protocol attack

published January 12, 2017

CVSS
—
EPSS
4%
Percentile
90.9
In the wild
Unconfirmed
What it is

⚠️ An HTTP inter-protocol attack can let an attacker execute arbitrary code on the REPL server in GNU Guile 2.0.12 — think of it as a food critic who sneaks into the kitchen and tweaks your secret recipe! Imagine a restaurant where a customer is allowed not just to order, but also to step into the kitchen and change the ingredients. This vulnerability allows unauthorized users to meddle with the server's operations, potentially serving up malicious code instead of the intended dish. If exploited, an attacker could gain the ability to run any command on the server, leading to a total takeover of the service — a situation that could impact data integrity and service availability.

Put simply

Imagine a restaurant where a customer is allowed not just to order, but also to step into the kitchen and change the ingredients. This vulnerability allows unauthorized users to meddle with the server's operations, potentially serving up malicious code instead of the intended dish. This vulnerability in GNU Guile's REPL server allows attackers to inject and execute arbitrary code through crafted HTTP requests, bypassing normal security controls.

What to do

If exploited, an attacker could gain the ability to run any command on the server, leading to a total takeover of the service — a situation that could impact data integrity and service availability. To mitigate this vulnerability, consider upgrading to a newer version of GNU Guile, as the exploit has not been reported in later releases. Additionally, assess your environment to restrict access to the REPL server and monitor HTTP requests for suspicious activity. You've got this! Take action now, and you'll keep your systems secure! 🛡️

The record
Technical detail
CVSS
Not scored
CVSS v4.0
Not supplied
EPSS
0.04223 · 90.9th percentile
Published
2017-01-12T22:00Z
EPSS history
Timeline
  • 12 JAN 22:00Z
    The REPL server (--listen) in GNU Guile 2.0.12 allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code via an HTTP inter-protocol attack
    cvelistv5