CVE-2023-43799 in Altair
Summary
by MITRE • 10/25/2023
Altair is a GraphQL Client. Prior to version 5.2.5, the Altair GraphQL Client Desktop Application does not sanitize external URLs before passing them to the underlying system. Moreover, Altair GraphQL Client also does not isolate the context of the renderer process. This affects versions of the software running on MacOS, Windows, and Linux. Version 5.2.5 fixes this issue.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/25/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-43799 affects the Altair GraphQL Client desktop application, a widely used tool for interacting with graphql APIs through a graphical interface. This security flaw exists in versions prior to 5.2.5 and impacts users across multiple operating systems including MacOS, Windows, and Linux platforms. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and process isolation mechanisms within the application's architecture, creating potential attack vectors that could be exploited by malicious actors.
The core technical flaw involves the application's failure to properly sanitize external URLs before processing them through the underlying system components. This lack of input sanitization creates a path for malicious URL inputs to be executed without proper validation, potentially allowing attackers to inject harmful commands or access unauthorized system resources. The vulnerability specifically targets the renderer process context which should be isolated from the main application process to prevent privilege escalation and cross-process attacks. This improper isolation means that malicious inputs could potentially compromise the entire application environment rather than being contained within a limited scope.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data exposure, as it could enable attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The combination of unsanitized external URL handling and insufficient process isolation creates multiple attack surfaces that could be leveraged for privilege escalation, data theft, or system compromise. Users operating affected versions of Altair GraphQL Client are at risk of having their systems compromised through seemingly legitimate interactions with the application, as the vulnerability can be triggered through normal usage patterns such as connecting to external graphql endpoints. This risk is particularly concerning given that graphql clients are often used in development environments where sensitive data and system access credentials may be present.
Security researchers have classified this vulnerability under CWE-20, which addresses improper input validation, and it aligns with ATT&CK techniques related to command and control communication and privilege escalation. The mitigation strategy involves upgrading to version 5.2.5 or later, which implements proper URL sanitization mechanisms and establishes appropriate process isolation between the renderer and main application processes. Organizations should also consider implementing network-level controls and monitoring for suspicious URL patterns when using graphql clients, while developers should adopt secure coding practices that emphasize input validation and process separation. The fix demonstrates the importance of maintaining up-to-date software versions and implementing proper security controls in desktop applications that interact with external resources.