CVE-2024-2195 in aim
Summary
by MITRE • 04/10/2024
A critical Remote Code Execution (RCE) vulnerability was identified in the aimhubio/aim project, specifically within the `/api/runs/search/run/` endpoint, affecting versions >= 3.0.0. The vulnerability resides in the `run_search_api` function of the `aim/web/api/runs/views.py` file, where improper restriction of user access to the `RunView` object allows for the execution of arbitrary code via the `query` parameter. This issue enables attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the server, potentially leading to full system compromise.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/29/2025
This critical remote code execution vulnerability in the aimhubio/aim project represents a severe security flaw that directly impacts the integrity and confidentiality of affected systems. The vulnerability exists within the web application's API layer, specifically targeting the `/api/runs/search/run/` endpoint that handles search operations for run data. The flaw is rooted in improper access controls and inadequate input validation mechanisms, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on the server. The vulnerability affects all versions of the application starting from version 3.0.0, indicating that this represents a regression or new security oversight that has persisted across multiple releases. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to gain complete control over the affected system, potentially enabling them to install malware, steal sensitive data, or use the compromised system as a launchpad for further attacks within the network infrastructure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the `run_search_api` function located in the `aim/web/api/runs/views.py` file, where the application fails to properly validate or sanitize user input before processing search queries. When attackers send malicious payloads through the `query` parameter, the system does not adequately filter or escape the input, allowing crafted commands to be executed within the application context. This represents a classic command injection vulnerability that has been classified under CWE-77 as "Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in a Command ('Command Injection'). The vulnerability enables attackers to leverage the application's search functionality as a vector for executing arbitrary commands with the privileges of the application process, which typically runs with elevated permissions on the server. The lack of proper access control mechanisms means that unauthorized users can bypass normal authentication and authorization checks that should prevent them from accessing sensitive system resources.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple data compromise, as it provides attackers with complete system control and the ability to escalate privileges within the application environment. Successful exploitation can result in full system compromise, data exfiltration, and potential lateral movement within the network infrastructure. Organizations using the affected aimhubio/aim project are at significant risk of unauthorized access to their research data, system resources, and potentially sensitive information contained within the application's database. The vulnerability's critical severity classification indicates that it can be exploited without requiring specialized skills or access credentials, making it particularly dangerous in environments where the application is exposed to untrusted networks or users. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.001 (Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell) and T1203 (Exploitation for Client Execution) as attackers can leverage the command execution capability to perform various malicious activities.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching and implementation of defensive measures to protect against exploitation attempts. The primary solution involves applying the latest security updates from the aimhubio/aim project maintainers that address the improper access controls and input validation issues. Organizations should also implement network-level protections such as firewalls, web application firewalls, and access control lists to restrict access to the vulnerable API endpoints. Input validation and sanitization should be strengthened at multiple layers, including application-level filtering and parameter validation to prevent malicious payloads from being processed. Additionally, implementing principle of least privilege access controls, regular security monitoring, and intrusion detection systems can help identify and respond to exploitation attempts. Security teams should also conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify similar issues within the application codebase and ensure that proper access control mechanisms are implemented throughout the system. Regular security training for development teams on secure coding practices and input validation techniques will help prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced in future releases.