CVE-2022-36231 in pdf_info
Summary
by MITRE • 02/24/2023
pdf_info 0.5.3 is vulnerable to Command Execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/24/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-36231 affects pdf_info version 0.5.3 and represents a critical command execution flaw that can be exploited by malicious actors to execute arbitrary commands on systems running the affected software. This vulnerability stems from improper input validation and handling within the pdf_info utility, which is commonly used for extracting metadata from pdf files. The flaw allows attackers to inject and execute malicious commands through crafted input parameters, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
This vulnerability maps to CWE-78, which specifically addresses OS Command Injection, a well-documented weakness in software systems where user-supplied data is directly incorporated into system command execution without proper sanitization. The attack vector typically involves manipulating command-line arguments or input parameters that are subsequently passed to operating system commands, creating an opportunity for privilege escalation and unauthorized system access. The vulnerability exists within the software's processing of pdf file metadata extraction functionality, where input validation is insufficient to prevent malicious command injection attempts.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-36231 extends beyond simple command execution, potentially enabling attackers to perform a wide range of malicious activities including data exfiltration, system enumeration, privilege escalation, and persistent access to compromised systems. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute commands with the privileges of the user running the pdf_info utility, which could be a low-privilege user or potentially a system administrator depending on how the application is deployed. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in environments where pdf_info is used in automated workflows or web applications, as it could be exploited through web interfaces or automated processing pipelines.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-36231 should focus on immediate patching of the pdf_info utility to version 0.5.4 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for command injection vulnerabilities. Organizations should implement input validation and sanitization measures to prevent malicious data from being processed by the utility, including proper escaping of command-line arguments and implementing strict parameter validation. Network segmentation and access controls should be enforced to limit exposure of systems running vulnerable versions of pdf_info, while monitoring systems should be deployed to detect anomalous command execution patterns. Additionally, security teams should consider implementing application whitelisting policies and restricting the execution privileges of the pdf_info utility to minimize potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, specifically targeting the execution of system commands through legitimate utilities.