Platform
linux
Component
nrss-rss-reader
Fixed in
0.3.10
CVE-2016-20043 describes a stack buffer overflow vulnerability affecting NRSS RSS Reader versions 0.3.9–0.3.9. This vulnerability allows a local attacker to execute arbitrary code by exploiting the -F parameter. Successful exploitation requires local access and crafting a malicious input exceeding the buffer's capacity. A fix is available; upgrading to a patched version is the recommended mitigation.
The primary impact of CVE-2016-20043 is the potential for arbitrary code execution on the affected system. An attacker with local access can craft a malicious input exceeding the buffer size allocated for the -F parameter. This overflow overwrites the return address, allowing the attacker to redirect program execution to their injected code. This could lead to complete system compromise, including data theft, privilege escalation, and installation of malware. The vulnerability's local access requirement limits its immediate impact, but it can be exploited if an attacker gains initial foothold on the system.
CVE-2016-20043 was published on 2026-03-28. No public proof-of-concept exploits are currently known. The vulnerability's local access requirement and relatively niche application (NRSS RSS Reader) suggest a low probability of active exploitation, though this could change. It is not listed on the CISA KEV catalog.
Exploit Status
EPSS
0.02% (4% percentile)
CISA SSVC
CVSS Vector
The primary mitigation for CVE-2016-20043 is to upgrade to a patched version of NRSS RSS Reader. If upgrading is not immediately feasible, consider implementing a Web Application Firewall (WAF) or proxy to filter incoming requests and block those with oversized -F parameters. Additionally, restrict access to the NRSS RSS Reader process to only trusted users. Monitor system logs for unusual activity related to the -F parameter. After upgrade, confirm the fix by attempting to supply an oversized argument to the -F parameter and verifying that the program does not crash or exhibit unexpected behavior.
Update to a patched version of the NRSS RSS Reader. If no version is available, consider using an alternative RSS reader. Avoid opening untrusted RSS feeds.
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CVE-2016-20043 is a buffer overflow vulnerability in NRSS RSS Reader versions 0.3.9–0.3.9 that allows local attackers to execute arbitrary code by supplying an oversized argument to the -F parameter.
You are affected if you are running NRSS RSS Reader version 0.3.9–0.3.9 and have not upgraded to a patched version.
Upgrade to a patched version of NRSS RSS Reader. If upgrading is not possible, implement WAF rules to filter oversized inputs to the -F parameter.
There are currently no known public exploits or confirmed active exploitation campaigns for CVE-2016-20043.
Refer to the NRSS RSS Reader project website or relevant security mailing lists for official advisories related to CVE-2016-20043.
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