CVE-2020-15945 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2020-15945 affecting Lua through 5.4.0, leading to a segmentation fault due to an incorrect assumption about updating the oldpc value.
Lua through 5.4.0 has a segmentation fault in changedline in ldebug.c due to an incorrect assumption about updating oldpc value.
Understanding CVE-2020-15945
Lua through version 5.4.0 is vulnerable to a segmentation fault issue that arises in the changedline function in ldebug.c, particularly when called by luaG_traceexec. The vulnerability stems from an incorrect expectation regarding the updating of the oldpc value upon the return of control flow to a function.
What is CVE-2020-15945?
This CVE describes a specific vulnerability in Lua versions up to 5.4.0 that can lead to a segmentation fault due to a flaw in the handling of the oldpc value within the changedline function.
The Impact of CVE-2020-15945
The vulnerability can be exploited to cause a segmentation fault, potentially leading to denial of service or arbitrary code execution.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-15945
Lua through version 5.4.0 is susceptible to a segmentation fault due to a flaw in the changedline function in ldebug.c.
Vulnerability Description
The issue arises from an incorrect assumption about the updating of the oldpc value upon the return of control flow to a function.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Lua
- Vendor: N/A
- Versions: Up to 5.4.0
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by triggering the changedline function, particularly when called by luaG_traceexec, to manipulate the oldpc value incorrectly.
Mitigation and Prevention
It is crucial to take immediate steps to address and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2020-15945.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply patches or updates provided by Lua to fix the segmentation fault issue.
- Monitor official sources for security advisories and updates.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update Lua to the latest secure versions.
- Implement secure coding practices to minimize the risk of similar vulnerabilities.
- Conduct regular security assessments and audits.
Patching and Updates
- Ensure timely application of patches and updates released by Lua to mitigate the vulnerability.