TMSNC: Execution of arbitrary code

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Updated March 12, 2009

1.  Gentoo Linux Security Advisory

Version Information

Advisory Reference GLSA 200903-26 / tmsnc
Release Date March 12, 2009
Latest Revision March 12, 2009: 01
Impact normal
Exploitable remote
Package Vulnerable versions Unaffected versions Architecture(s)
net-im/tmsnc <= 0.3.2-r1 All supported architectures

Related bugreports: #229157

Synopsis

A buffer overflow in TMSNC might lead to the execution of arbitrary code when processing an instant message.

2.  Impact Information

Background

TMSNC is a Textbased client for the MSN instant messaging protocol.

Description

Nico Golde reported a stack-based buffer overflow when processing a MSN packet with a UBX command containing a large UBX payload length field.

Impact

A remote attacker could send a specially crafted message, possibly resulting in the execution of arbitrary code.

3.  Resolution Information

Workaround

There is no known workaround at this time.

Resolution

Since TMSNC is no longer maintained, we recommend that users unmerge the vulnerable package and switch to another console-based MSN client such as CenterIM or Pebrot:

Code Listing 3.1: Resolution

# emerge --unmerge "net-im/tmsnc"

4.  References