Original release date: January 27, 2015

The Linux GNU C Library (glibc) versions prior to 2.18 are vulnerable to remote code execution via a vulnerability in the gethostbyname function. Exploitation of this vulnerability may allow a remote attacker to take control of an affected system. Linux distributions employing glibc-2.18 and later are not affected.

US-CERT recommends users and administrators refer to their respective Linux or Unix-based OS vendor(s) for an appropriate patch if affected. Patches are available from Ubuntu and Red Hat. The GNU C Library versions 2.18 and later are also available for experienced users and administrators to implement.

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