CVE-2019-16765 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2019-16765, a high-severity vulnerability in the vscode-codeql extension that allows attackers to execute arbitrary code. Find out how to mitigate the risk and prevent exploitation.
A vulnerability in the vscode-codeql extension could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code when a specially crafted directory tree is opened as a workspace in Visual Studio Code.
Understanding CVE-2019-16765
This CVE involves a security issue in the vscode-codeql extension that could lead to the execution of attacker-chosen code on a user's system.
What is CVE-2019-16765?
When a user opens a specific directory tree as a workspace in Visual Studio Code with the CodeQL extension activated, it may result in the unintentional execution of arbitrary code chosen by an attacker.
The Impact of CVE-2019-16765
- CVSS Base Score: 7.4 (High)
- Severity: High
- Attack Vector: Local
- User Interaction: Required
- Scope: Changed
- Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability Impact: High
- This vulnerability could allow an attacker to execute code with unnecessary privileges and perform improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-16765
This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code by manipulating workspace settings in Visual Studio Code with the CodeQL extension.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected Product: vscode-codeql
- Vendor: GitHub
- Affected Version: < 1.0.1
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attack Complexity: High
- Privileges Required: None
- Attack Vector: Local
- User Interaction: Required
- Scope: Changed
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2019-16765, users should take immediate steps and implement long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Upgrade to version 1.0.1 of the CodeQL extension via Visual Studio Code Marketplace.
- Modify the codeQL.cli.executablePath configuration in per-user settings only.
- Manually review workspace settings for any external workspaces.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and extensions to the latest versions.
- Exercise caution when opening workspaces from unknown or untrusted sources.
Patching and Updates
- Ensure that the codeQL.cli.executablePath setting is only configured in per-user settings.
- Refer to the Visual Studio Code Marketplace for the latest updates and security patches.