CVE-2023-39810 in busybox
Summary
by MITRE • 08/28/2023
An issue in the CPIO command of Busybox v1.33.2 allows attackers to execute a directory traversal.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/26/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-39810 resides within the CPIO command implementation of Busybox version 1.33.2, representing a critical directory traversal flaw that exposes systems relying on this ubiquitous embedded Linux utility to arbitrary code execution. This vulnerability specifically affects the extraction functionality of CPIO archives, where insufficient input validation permits attackers to manipulate archive contents through maliciously crafted file paths that can traverse beyond the intended extraction directory. The flaw stems from improper handling of filenames during archive extraction processes, allowing adversaries to craft archive entries with path traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\ that bypass normal directory boundaries. This issue is particularly concerning in embedded systems environments where Busybox serves as a fundamental component for system utilities and administrative functions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a classic path traversal attack vector where the CPIO command fails to properly sanitize or validate filenames before performing extraction operations. When processing archive entries, the system does not adequately check for directory traversal sequences or normalize file paths, enabling attackers to specify arbitrary filesystem locations for file creation or modification. This weakness aligns with CWE-22, which categorizes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal. The vulnerability operates at the filesystem level where archive extraction occurs, potentially allowing attackers to overwrite critical system files, create backdoor executables, or manipulate configuration files that could lead to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-39810 extends significantly across various deployment scenarios where Busybox is utilized, including but not limited to network appliances, routers, embedded devices, and IoT systems. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability could gain unauthorized access to system resources, escalate privileges, or establish persistent access points within networked environments. The implications are particularly severe in enterprise networks where these embedded devices often serve as critical infrastructure components, potentially allowing attackers to pivot from compromised devices to access broader network resources. This vulnerability directly relates to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as successful exploitation could enable adversaries to execute arbitrary commands through manipulated archive contents, and T1566 for malicious file execution through compromised archive handling.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-39810 primarily focus on immediate software updates to patched versions of Busybox where the directory traversal validation has been properly implemented. System administrators should prioritize patching all affected devices running Busybox v1.33.2 or earlier versions, particularly those handling untrusted archive files or operating in networked environments. Additional defensive measures include implementing strict file access controls, deploying network segmentation to limit exposure of vulnerable systems, and establishing robust input validation for all archive processing activities. Organizations should also consider implementing runtime monitoring to detect anomalous file creation patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, and maintain comprehensive backup strategies to ensure rapid recovery from potential compromise scenarios. The vulnerability underscores the critical importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices in system utilities, particularly those operating in embedded environments where update cycles may be infrequent and compromise recovery challenging.