Local Command Injection Vulnerability in python-virtualenv Package
Summary
UBUNTU-CVE-2024-53899: virtualenv before 20.26.6 allows command injection through the activation scripts for a virtual environment. Affects python-virtualenv versions 1.10.1-1 – 1.11.4-1ubuntu1. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The python-virtualenv package is a tool that allows users to create isolated Python environments. This is particularly useful for managing dependencies for different projects without conflicts. The package is widely used in various Ubuntu distributions, including LTS versions. However, it has been found to have a significant vulnerability that can lead to local command injection, potentially compromising the security of systems using it.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-53899 affects versions of virtualenv prior to 20.26.6. It allows for command injection through the activation scripts of a virtual environment due to improper quoting of magic template strings during replacement. This can lead to unauthorized command execution, which poses a serious risk to the integrity and confidentiality of the system. The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 8.4, indicating a high severity level.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can avoid using the activation scripts until the package is updated. This can be done by manually managing the environment variables required for the virtual environment without relying on the provided scripts.
Conclusion
The python-virtualenv package has a critical vulnerability (CVE-2024-53899) that allows local command injection due to improper handling of activation scripts. Users are strongly advised to update to the latest version to mitigate risks. For those unable to update immediately, a temporary workaround is available.
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FAQ
CVE-2024-53899 is a vulnerability in the python-virtualenv package that allows for local command injection through improperly handled activation scripts.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
If exploited, this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized command execution, which may compromise system security and data integrity.
Yes, a patched version of python-virtualenv is available. Users should update to version 20.26.6 or later.
If an immediate update is not possible, consider using the workaround of manually managing environment variables without relying on the activation scripts.
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