CVE-2019-1353 : Security Advisory and Response

A vulnerability was discovered in the Git software versions v2.24.1, v2.23.1, v2.22.2, v2.21.1, v2.20.2, v2.19.3, v2.18.2, v2.17.3, v2.16.6, v2.15.4, and v2.14.6. This issue pertains to the usage of Git in the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) environment, where the NTFS protections were not functioning properly when accessing a working directory located on a typical Windows drive.

Understanding CVE-2019-1353

This section provides insights into the impact and technical details of CVE-2019-1353.

What is CVE-2019-1353?

CVE-2019-1353 is a vulnerability found in Git versions before v2.24.1, affecting the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) environment.

The Impact of CVE-2019-1353

The vulnerability could lead to Remote Code Execution due to improper functioning of NTFS protections when accessing directories on Windows drives.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-1353

This section delves into the technical aspects of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises when running Git in the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) while accessing a working directory on a regular Windows drive, rendering NTFS protections inactive.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Git
Vendor: Microsoft Corporation
Versions Affected: Before 2.24.1, 2.23.1, 2.22.2, 2.21.1, 2.20.2, 2.19.3, 2.18.2, 2.17.3, 2.16.6, 2.15.4, 2.14.6

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability allows attackers to execute remote code by bypassing NTFS protections on Windows drives.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems from CVE-2019-1353 with these mitigation strategies.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Git to version 2.24.1 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Avoid accessing Git in the WSL environment until the software is updated.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software to the latest versions to patch known vulnerabilities.
Implement proper access controls and permissions to prevent unauthorized code execution.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories from vendors like Microsoft to apply patches promptly.