Slackware Security Advisory 2025-192-02: Critical Apache HTTPD Vulnerability (CVE-2025-QONOL5KEC5NV) – Patch Now

 

Slackware Linux issued Security Advisory 2025-192-02 addressing a critical Apache HTTPD vulnerability (CVE-2025-QONOL5KEC5NV). Learn about the exploit, affected versions, and immediate mitigation steps to secure your web server.

Why This Vulnerability Matters

A newly disclosed critical vulnerability (CVE-2025-QONOL5KEC5NV) in Apache HTTPD affects Slackware Linux systems, posing severe risks such as remote code execution (RCE) and privilege escalation. With over 37% of active websites relying on Apache, this flaw demands urgent attention.

Key Questions Addressed:

• Which Slackware versions are affected?

• How severe is this vulnerability?

• What are the immediate mitigation steps?

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Understanding the Apache HTTPD Vulnerability (CVE-2025-QONOL5KEC5NV)

1. Vulnerability Breakdown

The flaw resides in HTTPD’s request parsing mechanism, allowing attackers to:
✔ Execute arbitrary code via malformed requests (CVSS Score: 9.8 Critical)
✔ Bypass security controls in default configurations
✔ Trigger denial-of-service (DoS) attacks

Affected Slackware Versions:

• Slackware 15.0 – 15.3

• Slackware Current (if unpatched)

2. How Attackers Exploit This Flaw

• Exploit POC (Proof of Concept) has been observed in the wild.

• Attackers chain this with other CVEs for deeper system infiltration.

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Immediate Mitigation & Patching Steps

Option 1: Official Patch (Recommended)

bash

sudo slackpkg update  
sudo slackpkg upgrade httpd  

Option 2: Temporary Workarounds

• Disable mod_cgi if unused.

• Restrict HTTPD to trusted IPs via firewall rules.

For Enterprise Users:

• Deploy WAF (Web Application Firewall) rules blocking anomalous requests.

Conclusion: Act Now to Secure Your Systems

This Slackware advisory highlights a severe Apache HTTPD flaw requiring immediate patching. Proactive mitigation reduces exposure to cyberattacks and data breaches.

🔗 Further Reading:

• Apache HTTPD Official Security Bulletin

• NIST CVE Database Entry

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FAQ Section (For Featured Snippets & Long-Tail Queries)

Q: Is this vulnerability being actively exploited?
A: Yes, PoC exploits exist, making patching critical.

Q: Does this affect other Linux distros?
A: Only Slackware is confirmed impacted, but similar flaws may exist in other Apache deployments.