CVE-2015-7337 in IPython Notebook
Summary
by MITRE
The editor in IPython Notebook before 3.2.2 and Jupyter Notebook 4.0.x before 4.0.5 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript code via a crafted file, which triggers a redirect to files/, related to MIME types.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/19/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-7337 represents a critical security flaw in the IPython Notebook and Jupyter Notebook web applications that affected versions prior to 3.2.2 and 4.0.5 respectively. This vulnerability resides in the file editor component of these platforms, which are widely used for interactive computing and data analysis in scientific environments. The flaw specifically exploits how these applications handle file redirection and MIME type detection when processing user-uploaded files, creating a pathway for remote code execution through maliciously crafted files.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper validation of file MIME types and inadequate sanitization of file paths during the redirect process. When a user uploads a crafted file, the application fails to properly verify the file's actual content against its declared MIME type, allowing attackers to manipulate the application's behavior through carefully constructed file headers. This misconfiguration enables the application to redirect users to files/ directory while executing arbitrary JavaScript code embedded within the malicious file. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-20 as "Improper Input Validation" and specifically relates to improper handling of MIME types and file redirection mechanisms.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-7337 is severe, as it allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript code in the context of the victim's browser session. This capability enables attackers to perform various malicious activities including but not limited to session hijacking, data exfiltration, and privilege escalation within the notebook environment. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in collaborative environments where multiple users share notebook servers, as it can be exploited to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data or compromise the integrity of computational workflows. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent access or to pivot to other systems within the network infrastructure where these notebook applications are deployed.
Organizations and users affected by this vulnerability should immediately upgrade to the patched versions of IPython Notebook 3.2.2 or Jupyter Notebook 4.0.5, which contain proper MIME type validation and enhanced file path sanitization mechanisms. Additional mitigations include implementing proper network segmentation to limit access to notebook servers, deploying web application firewalls to detect and block malicious file uploads, and establishing strict file upload policies that restrict the types of files users can upload to notebook environments. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript' and T1566 for 'Phishing with Social Engineering', as it enables attackers to execute malicious scripts through crafted file delivery mechanisms. Security teams should also consider implementing automated monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous file redirection patterns and JavaScript execution attempts within notebook environments to provide additional layers of defense against exploitation attempts.