CVE-2021-41146 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

qutebrowser is an open source keyboard-focused browser with a minimal GUI. The vulnerability in versions >= 1.7.0 and < 2.4.0 allows arbitrary command execution on Windows machines. This article delves into the impact, technical details, and mitigation steps for CVE-2021-41146.

Understanding CVE-2021-41146

This section provides an overview of the vulnerability.

What is CVE-2021-41146?

CVE-2021-41146 is a vulnerability in qutebrowser versions >= 1.7.0 and < 2.4.0 that enables arbitrary command execution on Windows machines by manipulating specially crafted URLs.

The Impact of CVE-2021-41146

The vulnerability has a high severity impact with a CVSS base score of 8.8. It allows attackers to execute arbitrary code through qutebrowser commands, potentially leading to serious consequences.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-41146

This section highlights the technical aspects of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises from the Windows installer for qutebrowser registering a

qutebrowserurl:

URL handler. Opening malicious

qutebrowserurl:

URLs can trigger execution of qutebrowser commands, permitting arbitrary code execution.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Version: >= 1.7.0, < 2.4.0
Only Windows installs where qutebrowser is set as a URL handler are vulnerable

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the vulnerability by crafting malicious

qutebrowserurl:

URLs to execute commands like

:spawn

or

:debug-pyeval

, leading to arbitrary code execution.

Mitigation and Prevention

Learn how to mitigate and prevent potential attacks.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update qutebrowser to version 2.4.0 to patch the vulnerability
Avoid clicking on unknown or suspicious

qutebrowserurl:

URLs

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update qutebrowser to the latest version
Exercise caution when interacting with URLs and external links

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security updates and patches for qutebrowser to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities.