CVE-2024-58278 in perl2exe
Summary
by MITRE • 12/04/2025
perl2exe <= V30.10C contains an arbitrary code execution vulnerability that allows local authenticated attackers to execute malicious scripts. Attackers can control the 0th argument of packed executables to execute another executable, allowing them to bypass restrictions and gain unauthorized access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/05/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-58278 affects perl2exe version 30.10C and earlier, representing a critical arbitrary code execution flaw that can be exploited by local authenticated attackers. This vulnerability specifically targets the handling of packed executables and exploits a weakness in how the tool processes command-line arguments during the packaging process. The flaw exists in the manner in which perl2exe manages the 0th argument of packed executables, creating a pathway for malicious code injection that bypasses normal security restrictions. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and improper argument handling within the perl2exe packaging utility, which is commonly used to convert perl scripts into standalone executable files for distribution. Attackers can leverage this weakness to execute arbitrary code on systems where perl2exe is installed and used to create packaged applications.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the manipulation of the initial command-line argument that is passed to packed executables generated by perl2exe. When perl2exe processes perl scripts for conversion into executables, it creates a command-line interface that includes the 0th argument, typically representing the script name or executable path. The flaw occurs when this argument is not properly sanitized or validated, allowing an attacker to inject malicious commands that will be executed when the packed executable runs. This particular vulnerability aligns with CWE-78, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands, and CWE-15, which addresses improper neutralization of input during command and control operations. The vulnerability can be exploited through the manipulation of the perl2exe configuration or packaging process, where attackers can influence how the executable arguments are handled during runtime execution.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-58278 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a mechanism to bypass security controls that would normally prevent unauthorized access to systems. Local authenticated attackers who can influence the perl2exe packaging process gain the ability to execute malicious code with the privileges of the user running the packaging utility, potentially leading to privilege escalation or system compromise. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous in environments where perl2exe is used to distribute applications, as attackers could modify the packaging process to inject malicious payloads into legitimate applications. The impact is further amplified by the fact that perl2exe is commonly used in enterprise environments for creating portable applications, making the attack surface potentially large and widespread. The vulnerability also aligns with several tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly those related to execution and privilege escalation, where attackers can leverage command injection techniques to gain unauthorized access to systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-58278 should focus on immediate patching of perl2exe to version 30.11 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the argument handling vulnerability. Organizations should also implement strict access controls on systems where perl2exe is installed, limiting who can execute packaging operations and monitor for suspicious activity. Input validation should be enhanced at all levels where perl2exe is used, particularly in automated build processes or continuous integration environments where packaging occurs. Additional security measures include monitoring for unusual command-line argument patterns in packed executables and implementing application whitelisting policies to prevent execution of unauthorized binaries. System administrators should also consider removing perl2exe from production environments where it is not strictly required, as the vulnerability demonstrates that even legitimate packaging tools can contain critical flaws that can be exploited by authenticated attackers. The vulnerability highlights the importance of regular security assessments and patch management processes to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities in commonly used development tools and utilities.