CVE-2022-36563 in Rubyinstaller2
Summary
by MITRE • 08/31/2022
Incorrect access control in the install directory (C:\RailsInstaller) of Rubyinstaller2 v3.1.2 and below allows authenticated attackers to execute arbitrary code via overwriting binaries located in the directory.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/10/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-36563 represents a critical access control flaw within the Rubyinstaller2 software ecosystem affecting versions 3.1.2 and earlier. This issue resides in the installation directory structure at C:\RailsInstaller where the software fails to properly enforce access permissions, creating a path traversal and privilege escalation vector that can be exploited by authenticated attackers. The flaw stems from insufficient directory permissions that allow unauthorized modification of critical binary components, enabling malicious actors to substitute legitimate executables with malicious payloads.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves improper discretionary access control mechanisms within the Windows file system permissions model. When Rubyinstaller2 installs its components, it creates the C:\RailsInstaller directory without adequate permission restrictions, allowing users with standard authentication credentials to modify or replace executable files within this directory. This misconfiguration creates a persistent backdoor opportunity where attackers can overwrite legitimate binaries with malicious equivalents that will execute with the privileges of the target user or system process. The vulnerability operates at the file system level and can be classified under CWE-276, which specifically addresses incorrect permissions for critical resources, making it a direct violation of fundamental security principles for privilege management.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a persistent foothold within targeted systems. Once an attacker successfully overwrites a binary within the install directory, the malicious code will execute whenever the legitimate application or service attempts to run, creating a stealthy persistence mechanism. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, as attackers can leverage the installed binaries to execute arbitrary commands. The attack surface is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where Rubyinstaller2 is commonly deployed for development and testing purposes, as these systems often contain sensitive data and applications that could be compromised through this access control failure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-36563 require immediate implementation of proper access control policies and system hardening measures. Organizations should enforce strict permission controls on the C:\RailsInstaller directory by implementing appropriate discretionary access control lists that restrict write access to authorized administrators only. The recommended approach involves setting explicit permissions that deny write access to all users except designated system administrators and implementing mandatory access controls where appropriate. Additionally, system administrators should conduct comprehensive audits of all installation directories to identify similar permission misconfigurations across other software installations. Regular security assessments should include verification of file system permissions for all critical directories, with automated monitoring systems to detect unauthorized permission changes. The most effective long-term solution involves upgrading to Rubyinstaller2 versions that have addressed this vulnerability through proper access control implementation, while also implementing application whitelisting policies to prevent execution of unauthorized binaries within the affected directory structure.