CVE-2024-6983 in localai
Summary
by MITRE • 09/27/2024
mudler/localai version 2.17.1 is vulnerable to remote code execution. The vulnerability arises because the localai backend receives inputs not only from the configuration file but also from other inputs, allowing an attacker to upload a binary file and execute malicious code. This can lead to the attacker gaining full control over the system.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/11/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-6983 affects mudler/localai version 2.17.1 and represents a critical remote code execution flaw that fundamentally undermines the security posture of the affected system. This vulnerability stems from the application's improper handling of user-supplied inputs, where the backend processes not only configuration file data but also accepts inputs from external sources, creating an attack surface that enables arbitrary code execution. The flaw is particularly concerning because it allows attackers to upload binary files and subsequently execute malicious code on the target system, effectively providing full system compromise capabilities. The vulnerability manifests through the application's failure to properly validate and sanitize inputs received from multiple sources, including direct user uploads and configuration parameters that can be manipulated by attackers.
From a technical perspective, this vulnerability operates under CWE-434 which specifically addresses the insecure upload of code or files, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploitation of remote services. The root cause lies in the application's lack of proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms that should prevent the execution of unauthorized binary code. When an attacker successfully exploits this vulnerability, they can upload malicious payloads that are then executed within the context of the localai application, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability is exacerbated by the fact that the application's architecture accepts inputs from multiple vectors, making it difficult to establish comprehensive defenses against all potential attack paths.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-6983 is severe and multifaceted, as it provides attackers with complete control over affected systems. Once exploited, adversaries can establish persistent access, escalate privileges, exfiltrate sensitive data, and potentially use the compromised system as a launchpad for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability's remote execution capability means that attackers do not require physical access to the system, making it particularly dangerous in cloud environments or networked deployments where localai services are exposed to external networks. Organizations running affected versions face significant risk of data breaches, system compromise, and potential regulatory violations, especially in environments where sensitive information is processed through localai applications.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate remediation through the application of available patches or updates from the vendor. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit access to localai services and deploy network monitoring solutions to detect suspicious file upload activities. Input validation and sanitization should be strengthened across all application interfaces, with particular attention to file upload mechanisms and configuration parameter handling. Additionally, implementing principle of least privilege access controls, regular security assessments, and maintaining up-to-date threat intelligence feeds can help reduce the risk of exploitation. The vulnerability underscores the importance of secure coding practices and input validation in preventing remote code execution attacks, particularly in applications that process user-supplied data from multiple sources.