CVE-2019-13351 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability in the libjack library in JACK2 versions 1.9.1 through 1.9.12 can lead to unintended disclosure of information, system crashes, or file corruption.

Understanding CVE-2019-13351

This CVE involves a "double file descriptor close" problem in posix/JackSocket.cpp within the libjack library.

What is CVE-2019-13351?

The issue arises when attempting to establish a connection without jackd2 running, affecting alsa-plugins versions 1.1.7 and later. The timing of the double close in a multithreaded environment is crucial for successful exploitation.

The Impact of CVE-2019-13351

Unintended disclosure of information
System crashes
File corruption due to incorrect file association with the file descriptor

Technical Details of CVE-2019-13351

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in libjack in JACK2 versions 1.9.1 through 1.9.12, distributed with alsa-plugins 1.1.7 and later, allows for a "double file descriptor close" issue during a failed connection attempt when jackd2 is not running.

Affected Systems and Versions

JACK2 versions 1.9.1 through 1.9.12
alsa-plugins versions 1.1.7 and later

Exploitation Mechanism

The success of an exploit depends on the specific timing of the double close in a multithreaded environment, potentially leading to unintended information disclosure, system crashes, or file corruption.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-13351 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update JACK2 and alsa-plugins to patched versions
Monitor for any unusual file descriptor activities

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement secure coding practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities
Regularly update and patch software components

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by the respective vendors to address the vulnerability