CVE-2017-0901 in RubyGems
Summary
by MITRE
RubyGems version 2.6.12 and earlier fails to validate specification names, allowing a maliciously crafted gem to potentially overwrite any file on the filesystem.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/10/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-0901 affects RubyGems versions 2.6.12 and earlier, representing a critical security flaw in the Ruby package management system. This issue stems from inadequate validation of specification names during gem installation processes, creating a path for malicious actors to exploit the system's trust model. The flaw allows attackers to craft specially designed gems that can potentially overwrite any file on the target filesystem, fundamentally compromising system integrity and security.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs within the gem specification validation mechanism where RubyGems fails to properly sanitize or verify the names of specifications contained within gem packages. When a malicious gem is installed, the system processes the specification names without adequate checks for path traversal sequences or other potentially harmful patterns. This weakness enables attackers to include crafted specification names that, when processed by the installation routine, can result in arbitrary file overwrites. The vulnerability specifically targets the gem installation workflow where specification names are used to determine file paths and locations within the filesystem.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-0901 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with the ability to modify critical system files, configuration data, or even executable components that could lead to complete system compromise. An attacker could potentially overwrite system binaries, configuration files, or user data, creating persistent backdoors or disabling system functionality. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the package installation level, meaning that any user who installs a malicious gem could be compromised, regardless of their privilege level. This makes the attack surface extremely broad and difficult to contain.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Path Traversal and CWE-73 Path Traversal, both of which address the improper handling of file paths and specification names that can lead to unauthorized file access or modification. The flaw also corresponds to ATT&CK technique T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter, as the exploitation could involve creating malicious scripts or commands that are executed during the installation process. Additionally, the vulnerability maps to ATT&CK technique T1078 Valid Accounts, since the malicious actions could be performed using legitimate user accounts that install packages from trusted sources. The remediation strategy requires immediate upgrade to RubyGems version 2.6.13 or later, which implements proper specification name validation. Organizations should also conduct thorough audits of installed gems and implement package verification mechanisms to prevent installation of untrusted packages. System administrators should consider implementing additional controls such as sandboxed gem installations or package signature verification to further mitigate the risk of exploitation.