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Gentoo Linux Security Advisory GLSA 200401-04
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~ http://security.gentoo.org
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~ Severity: Normal
~ Title: GAIM 0.75 Remote overflows
~ Date: January 27, 2004
~ Bugs: #39470
~ ID: 200401-04
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Synopsis
========
Various overflows in the handling of AIM DirectIM packets was revealed
in GAIM that could lead to a remote compromise of the IM client.
Background
==========
Gaim is a multi-platform and multi-protocol instant messaging client. It
is compatible with AIM , ICQ, MSN Messenger, Yahoo, IRC, Jabber,
Gadu-Gadu, and the Zephyr networks.
Description
===========
Yahoo changed the authentication methods to their IM servers, rendering
GAIM useless. The GAIM team released a rushed release solving this
issue, however, at the same time a code audit revealed 12
vulnerabilities [ 1 ].
Impact
======
Due to the nature of instant messaging many of these bugs require
man-in-the-middle attacks between the client and the server. But the
underlying protocols are easy to implement and attacking ordinary TCP
sessions is a fairly simple task. As a result, all users are advised to
upgrade their GAIM installation.
[ * ] Users of GAIM 0.74 or below are affected by 7 of the
~ vulnerabilities and are encouraged to upgrade.
[ * ] Users of GAIM 0.75 are affected by 11 of the vulnerabilities
~ and are encouraged to upgrade to the patched version of GAIM
~ offered by Gentoo.
[ * ] Users of GAIM 0.75-r6 are only affected by 4 of the
~ vulnerabilities, but are still urged to upgrade to maintain
~ security.
Workaround
==========
There is no immediate workaround; a software upgrade is required.
Resolution
==========
All users are recommended to upgrade GAIM to 0.75-r7.
~ $> emerge sync
~ $> emerge -pv ">=net-im/gaim-0.75-r7"
~ $> emerge ">=net-im/gaim-0.75-r7"
References
==========
~ [ 1 ] : http://www.securityfocus.com/archive/1/351235
Concerns?
=========
Security is a primary focus of Gentoo Linux and ensuring the
confidentiality and security of our users machines is of utmost
importance to us. Any security concerns should be addressed to
security_at_gentoo.org or alternatively, you may file a bug at
http://bugs.gentoo.org.
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Received on Jan 28 2004
Intro
