CVE-2013-1437 in Module-Metadata module
Summary
by MITRE
Eval injection vulnerability in the Module-Metadata module before 1.000015 for Perl allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary Perl code via the $Version value.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/11/2024
The CVE-2013-1437 vulnerability represents a critical eval injection flaw within the Module-Metadata Perl module, specifically affecting versions prior to 1.000015. This vulnerability resides in the module's handling of version strings during metadata processing, creating a pathway for remote code execution through maliciously crafted version values. The issue stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms that allow attackers to inject arbitrary Perl code directly into the evaluation context where version information is processed. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it leverages the inherent trust placed in module metadata during Perl package installation and processing operations, making it a prime target for supply chain attacks and remote exploitation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the fundamental design flaw where the Module-Metadata module directly evaluates version strings without proper sanitization, creating an environment where attacker-controlled input can be executed as Perl code. When the module processes metadata containing malicious version values, the eval function receives untrusted input that includes executable Perl code, enabling arbitrary code execution on systems where the vulnerable module is installed. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-94, which specifically addresses "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: Perl," demonstrating how attackers can leverage language-specific interpreter vulnerabilities to achieve remote code execution. The flaw essentially transforms the legitimate metadata processing functionality into a code execution vector through improper input handling.
The operational impact of CVE-2013-1437 extends far beyond simple remote code execution, as it affects the entire Perl ecosystem and package management infrastructure. Systems running vulnerable versions of Module-Metadata are at risk of complete compromise when processing any package metadata containing malicious version values, potentially allowing attackers to install backdoors, exfiltrate data, or establish persistent access to affected systems. The vulnerability particularly impacts Perl package managers and dependency resolution systems that rely on Module-Metadata for processing package information, making it a significant concern for automated deployment environments, continuous integration pipelines, and enterprise Perl application ecosystems. Organizations using Perl-based applications, web services, or package management systems that depend on affected versions of this module face substantial risk of exploitation, especially in environments where package metadata processing occurs automatically without manual intervention.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-1437 require immediate version updates to Module-Metadata version 1.000015 or later, which implements proper input sanitization and prevents the evaluation of untrusted version strings. System administrators should conduct comprehensive inventory checks to identify all systems running vulnerable versions and prioritize patching operations, particularly in production environments where automated package processing occurs. Additional defensive measures include implementing network segmentation to limit access to package repositories, deploying intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious package metadata processing activities, and establishing secure software supply chain practices that validate package integrity before installation. Organizations should also consider implementing runtime protections such as perl taint mode and strict input validation for any applications that process package metadata, while following ATT&CK mitigation techniques for preventing code injection attacks and implementing proper access controls to limit the impact of potential exploitation. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of input validation in interpreted languages and the need for robust security practices in software supply chain management.