CVE-2026-48097 in NexTor IP Changer
Summary
by MITRE • 08/07/2026
NexTor IP Changer is a command-line tool that leverages the Tor network to periodically rotate a user's IP address. Versions prior to 2.0.0 have a command execution vulnerability due to unsafe use of `shell=True` with commands that rely on executable resolution through the `PATH` environment variable. An attacker controlling the execution environment can place malicious executables such as sudo earlier in the `PATH`, resulting in execution of attacker-controlled code. Version 2.0.0 fixes the issue.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/07/2026
The NexTor IP Changer tool represents a utility designed for network anonymity through periodic ip address rotation via the tor network. This command line application operates by executing various system commands to manage network configurations and maintain connectivity with tor services. The vulnerability analysis reveals a critical security flaw in versions prior to 2.0.0 that stems from improper command execution handling within the application's core functionality. The tool's implementation employs python's subprocess module with shell=True parameter when executing external commands, creating an avenue for privilege escalation and arbitrary code execution.
The technical flaw manifests through unsafe use of shell=True parameter combined with reliance on PATH environment variable resolution for executable lookup. When applications execute system commands using shell=True without proper sanitization or command composition, they become vulnerable to path manipulation attacks. This vulnerability aligns with common weakness enumeration CWE-78 which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands. The attack vector becomes particularly dangerous when an attacker can modify the execution environment, specifically by manipulating the PATH variable to place malicious executables ahead of legitimate system binaries. In this case, placing a crafted sudo binary earlier in the PATH allows the application to execute attacker-controlled code with elevated privileges instead of the intended system commands.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise when the tool operates with elevated privileges. An attacker who can control the environment where NexTor IP Changer executes could potentially escalate privileges, modify system configurations, or establish persistent access through the compromised application. The threat model becomes particularly concerning given that network anonymity tools often run with elevated permissions to manage network interfaces and routing tables. According to attack technique ATT&CK T1059.003, adversaries can execute malicious code through command and scripting interpreters, which directly applies to this vulnerability. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal prerequisites - essentially the ability to control the execution environment or manipulate the PATH variable.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability focus on proper command execution practices that align with security best practices established by organizations such as the Open Web Application Security Project. The fix implemented in version 2.0.0 addresses the core issue through use of shell=False parameter combined with explicit executable paths, eliminating the reliance on PATH resolution for command execution. This approach follows principle of least privilege and adheres to secure coding guidelines that prevent command injection vulnerabilities. Additionally, applications should validate all input parameters and avoid dynamic command construction when possible. The solution also emphasizes the importance of not relying on system PATH resolution for critical operations, as demonstrated by the successful remediation in the updated version. Organizations using vulnerable versions should immediately upgrade to 2.0.0 or later, while implementing proper environment sanitization measures if immediate upgrades are not feasible.