CVE-2023-38673 in Paddle
Summary
by MITRE • 07/26/2023
PaddlePaddle before 2.5.0 has a command injection in fs.py. This resulted in the ability to execute arbitrary commands on the operating system.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/18/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-38673 affects PaddlePaddle versions prior to 2.5.0 and represents a critical command injection flaw within the fs.py component of the deep learning framework. This vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms that allow malicious actors to inject arbitrary commands through improperly handled file system operations. The flaw exists in the way the software processes user-supplied data when interacting with file system functionalities, creating an avenue for remote code execution on systems running vulnerable versions of the framework.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of command construction within the fs.py module where user-controllable parameters are directly incorporated into system commands without adequate sanitization or escaping mechanisms. This pattern aligns with common command injection vulnerabilities classified under CWE-77 and CWE-88, where attacker-controlled data flows directly into command execution contexts. The vulnerability's exploitation requires an attacker to provide malicious input that gets processed and executed as part of a system command, potentially allowing full system compromise when the framework is used in environments where untrusted input is processed.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides adversaries with complete control over affected systems running vulnerable PaddlePaddle versions. Attackers can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the process running the framework, potentially leading to data exfiltration, system persistence mechanisms, or further lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability affects environments where PaddlePaddle is used for processing user inputs or external data, particularly in web applications or distributed computing scenarios where the framework interfaces with untrusted data sources. This represents a significant risk in production environments where the framework might be exposed to external inputs or where privilege escalation opportunities exist.
Organizations should immediately upgrade to PaddlePaddle version 2.5.0 or later to remediate this vulnerability, as no effective workarounds exist for the command injection flaw. The mitigation strategy should include comprehensive patch management procedures to ensure all systems running PaddlePaddle are updated to versions that properly sanitize input parameters before command execution. Security teams should also implement monitoring for suspicious command execution patterns and conduct thorough vulnerability assessments of systems where PaddlePaddle is deployed to identify potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's classification under ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and script injection underscores the need for robust input validation controls and principle of least privilege implementations to minimize potential damage from such exploits.