Security Leaks Discovered in Pidgin
The free instant messaging client Pidgin has closed security leaks in the Linux versions 2.6.0 and 2.6.1 that appeared in connection with MSN.
One of the leaks could be used to activate code remotely and cause the system to crash. The user would have to be connected to MSN at the time Using specially prepared messages, attackers could cause damage via the buffer overflow, as reported in Pidgin's Security Advisory. The developers advise that version 2.6.1 has fixed the problem. Versions 2.6.0 and 2.5.9 are considered safe. The latter is available as source code only and meant for distributors who don't want to update to 2.6.
Discoverers of the leak point towards the Libpurple library as cause of the problem and claim that other instant messengers using Libpurple in version 2.6.0 are at risk. This also includes the MAC OS client Adium in versions 1.3.5 and smaller.
Subscribe to our Linux Newsletters
Find Linux and Open Source Jobs
Subscribe to our ADMIN Newsletters
Support Our Work
Linux Magazine content is made possible with support from readers like you. Please consider contributing when you’ve found an article to be beneficial.
News
-
Endless OS 6 has Arrived
After more than a year since the last update, the latest release of Endless OS is now available for general usage.
-
Fedora Asahi 40 Remix Available for Macs with Apple Silicon
If you've been anticipating KDE's Plasma 6 for your Apple Silicon-powered Mac, then you're in luck.
-
Red Hat Adds New Deployment Option for Enterprise Linux Platforms
Red Hat has re-imagined enterprise Linux for an AI future with Image Mode.
-
OSJH and LPI Release 2024 Open Source Pros Job Survey Results
See what open source professionals look for in a new role.
-
Proton 9.0-1 Released to Improve Gaming with Steam
The latest release of Proton 9 adds several improvements and fixes an issue that has been problematic for Linux users.
-
So Long Neofetch and Thanks for the Info
Today is a day that every Linux user who enjoys bragging about their system(s) will mourn, as Neofetch has come to an end.
-
Ubuntu 24.04 Comes with a “Flaw"
If you're thinking you might want to upgrade from your current Ubuntu release to the latest, there's something you might want to consider before doing so.
-
Canonical Releases Ubuntu 24.04
After a brief pause because of the XZ vulnerability, Ubuntu 24.04 is now available for install.
-
Linux Servers Targeted by Akira Ransomware
A group of bad actors who have already extorted $42 million have their sights set on the Linux platform.
-
TUXEDO Computers Unveils Linux Laptop Featuring AMD Ryzen CPU
This latest release is the first laptop to include the new CPU from Ryzen and Linux preinstalled.