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KDE, the developer of the popular Plasma desktop environment for Linux, has issued a warning to users regarding the installation of global themes. While these themes allow for desktop customization, recent incidents highlight potential security risks associated with global themes, including from the official KDE Store.
The core of the issue lies in the ability of global themes and plugins to execute arbitrary code. This functionality, primarily achieved through executable bash scripts, is required for changing the visual and functional aspects of the desktop, including wallpaper, lock screens, icons, color schemes, and so on. However, it also creates a vulnerability if malicious code is embedded within a theme.
KDE acknowledges a lack of resources to thoroughly examine every submitted theme for malicious intent. This, coupled with the absence of rigorous checks within the KDE Store, creates an environment where users could unknowingly install themes that execute harmful commands.
Earlier reports highlighted instances of data loss caused by malicious themes deploying commands like “rm -rf,” which wipes files from entire drives. While the offending theme has been removed from the store, similar threats could potentially lurk within unreviewed themes.
David Edmundson, a Software Engineer and Project Lead at KDE, emphasized the need for clear communication regarding security expectations for Plasma extensions. He also outlined plans to introduce curation and auditing processes within the store, alongside improving sandbox support, to enhance user safety.
Conclusion
To address these concerns, KDE encourages users to report any suspicious software and are actively working on bolstering the curation process within the store. It is advisable to exercise caution when installing software from sources outside of KDE or their distribution providers. System settings within KDE already display warnings regarding the potential risks of unreviewed themes, reiterating the importance of vigilance when customizing your desktop environment.
The sources for this article include a story from BleepingComputer.
Summary
Article Name
KDE Warns of Risks with Global Themes After Data Loss Incident
Description
Stay informed about KDE caution for Linux users regarding global theme installation. Learn how to safeguard your system and data.
Author
Rohan Timalsina
Publisher Name
TuxCare
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FAQs
KDE's warning highlights an important issue that could have significant implications for Linux users and the broader open-source community. The fact that arbitrary code execution is required for global themes to customize the desktop's appearance raises concerns about security and integrity.
Are plasma themes safe? ›
WARNING: Global themes and widgets created by 3rd party developers for Plasma can and will run arbitrary code. You are encouraged to exercise extreme caution when using these products. A user has had a bad experience installing a global theme on Plasma and lost personal data.
What is data privacy risk? ›
Privacy risk is the potential loss of control over personal information.
Are plasma globes safe? ›
Plasma balls are incredibly safe so long as it is operated responsibly and safely. As with all objects that handle an electric current, there are some things to avoid during the plasma ball's operation. Do not touch the plasma ball with wet hands. This may result in a small shock.
Are plasma balls safe near computers? ›
Hazards. Bringing conductive materials or electronic devices close to a plasma ball may cause the glass to become hot. The high voltage radio frequency energy coupled to them from within the ball may cause a mild electric shock to the person touching, even through a protective glass casing.
How is data masking done? ›
Dynamic data masking works as follows: All users communicate with the database via a proxy server. When users request to read data, the database proxy applies masking rules based on user roles, privileges, or access permissions. Authorized users receive the original data, while unauthorized users receive masked data.
How does AI violate privacy? ›
Unauthorized access to personal data: AI systems often require access to personal data in order to function. If this data is not properly secured, it can be accessed by unauthorized individuals or organizations, leading to privacy violations including identity theft.
Why should I be worried about data privacy? ›
Companies use credit reports, loyalty programs, the data we upload to dating profiles and fitness devices, and more which they use to create consumer profiles and targeted advertising. Even worse, data breaches expose sensitive and identifiable data to malicious actors who spam, scam, phish, smish, and vish us.
How data privacy is compromised? ›
Data compromises can occur through various means, including hacking, phishing, malicious insiders, or even accidental disclosure. The impact of a data compromise can be severe, potentially resulting in financial losses, reputational damage, and legal consequences.
What is the NIST privacy risk? ›
NIST Privacy Risk Assessment Methodology (PRAM)
The PRAM is a tool that applies the risk model from NISTIR 8062 and helps organizations analyze, assess, and prioritize privacy risks to determine how to respond and select appropriate solutions.
The data privacy scandal in Facebook refers to the Cambridge Analytica scandal, where millions of Facebook users' personal data was harvested without consent and used for political advertising.
Is plasma app safe? ›
Plasma is a messenger that keeps your conversations secure. Add your organization to a private channel where its members can talk safely thanks to end-to-end encryption between all participants.
Are plasma machines safe? ›
Plasma cutting involves the use of compressed gases, metals, and high temperatures, which produce dangerous fumes. The arc created by plasma welding is intense and may lead to eye injuries and exposure to ultraviolet radiation, which requires proper personal protection equipment.
What display manager does plasma use? ›
SDDM serves as the default display manager for the KDE Plasma desktop environment. It's created for simplicity, speed, and visual appeal.
Where are plasma themes? ›
Themes are stored in:
- System/Default: /usr/share/plasma/desktoptheme/
- User Installed: ~/. local/share/plasma/desktoptheme/ (KDE Store Category)
