X
Subscribe To Our Blog
Enter your email address to find out what’s happening with IT, cybersecurity, Compliance and more from Dox!
FIRST NAME
LAST NAME

EMAIL

WEBKITGTK AND WPE WEBKIT VULNERABILITY IDENTIFIED

A cybersecurity advisory was issued yesterday, Feb. 17, 2021, regarding a vulnerability in WebKitGTK and WPE WebKit. The vulnerability could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code, which could potentially lead to a breach.

What It Is:

A vulnerability has been discovered in WebKit GTK and WPE WebKit which could allow for arbitrary code execution.
  • WebKitGTK is a full-featured port of the WebKit rendering engine, suitable for projects requiring any kind of web integration, from hybrid HTML/CSS applications to full-fledged web browsers.
  • WPE is the reference WebKit port for embedded and low-consumption computer devices.
Successful exploitation of this vulnerability could allow for arbitrary code execution. Depending on the privileges associated with the user an attacker could then install programs; view, change, or delete data; or create new accounts with full user rights. Users whose accounts are configured to have fewer user rights on the system could be less impacted than those who operate with administrative user rights.

Read the original WebKitGTK Security Advisories below for more information:

Threat Intelligence:

There are currently no reports of this vulnerability being exploited in the wild.

Systems Affected:

  • WebKitGTK prior to version 2.30.5
  • WPE WebKit prior to version 2.30.5

Risk:

Government:

  • Large and medium government entities: High
  • Small government entities: Medium

Businesses:

  • Large and medium business entities: High
  • Small business entities: Medium

Home users: Low

What It Means:

If you and/or your business utilize the WebKitGTK and WPE WebKit versions mentioned above, you will need to install the updates provided by WebKitGTK and WPE WebKit immediately following proper testing.

Technical Summary:

A vulnerability has been discovered in WebKitGTK and WPE WebKit which could allow for arbitrary code execution. This vulnerability occurs when processing specially crafted web content due to a use after free error in the ‘AudioSourceProviderGStreamer’ class.

What To Do:

We recommend the following actions be taken:
  • Install the updates provided by WebKitGTK and WPE WebKit immediately after appropriate testing.
  • Run all software as a non-privileged user (one without administrative privileges) to diminish the effects of a successful attack.
  • Remind users not to visit untrusted websites or follow links provided by unknown or untrusted sources.
  • Inform and educate users regarding the threats posed by hypertext links contained in emails or attachments especially from untrusted sources.
  • Apply the Principle of Least Privilege to all systems and services.

Negative Consequences of Lost or Stolen Data:

The loss or theft of proprietary data can have severe impacts, particularly if the compromise becomes public and sensitive information is exposed. Possible impacts include:
  • Temporary or permanent loss of sensitive or proprietary information.
  • Disruption to regular operations.
  • Financial losses incurred to restore systems and files.
  • Potential harm to an organization’s reputation.
Should your agency or business need assistance with issues arising from vulnerabilities in WebKitGTK and WPE WebKit, including updates and/or patches, Dox can help. Please contact Dox if there is anything we can do to assist in securing your agency, business, or organization.

Thank you for your time and stay safe online.
Share This Posting
Copyright ©   DoxWeb Design & SEO by Scriptable Solutions