RedHat Issues Urgent Security Alert for Backdoored XZ Utils
In a recent development, RedHat has issued an “urgent security alert” warning users of backdoored versions of XZ Utils. The vulnerability in question has a CVSS score of 10.0, indicating maximum severity. The malicious code embedded in the compromised software is designed to allow unauthorized remote access to systems, posing a significant threat to users.
The software supply chain compromise has been tracked as CVE-2024-3094. The nefarious code specifically targets the sshd daemon process for SSH, potentially opening up systems to exploitation. The issue was discovered and reported by a Microsoft security researcher, shedding light on the severity of the situation.
The malicious code was introduced through GitHub commits by a user named JiaT75, prompting GitHub to disable the XZ Utils repository maintained by the Tukaani Project. Fortunately, there have been no reports of active exploitation in the wild so far.
The compromised packages are only present in Fedora 41 and Fedora Rawhide, sparing other Linux distributions from being impacted. Users are strongly urged to downgrade to uncompromised versions of XZ Utils to ensure their systems’ security. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has also issued an alert advising users to take action to protect themselves.
This development has prompted caution in the Linux community and cybersecurity agencies, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and proactive measures to safeguard against potential threats. Stay tuned for further updates and advisories as the situation continues to unfold.
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