CVE-2023-37274 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Auto-GPT, an experimental open-source application showcasing the GPT-4 language model, is affected by a critical vulnerability allowing Python code execution sandbox escape pre-version 0.4.3.

Understanding CVE-2023-37274

Auto-GPT's

execute_python_code

command in versions prior to 0.4.3 lacks input sanitization, enabling a path traversal attack to overwrite files outside the workspace directory and potentially execute arbitrary code on the host system.

What is CVE-2023-37274?

The issue arises from improper control of code generation, where malicious input can lead to unauthorized file modifications and host system compromise, posing a significant security risk.

The Impact of CVE-2023-37274

This vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 7.6 (High) with confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts rated high. It requires low privileges for exploitation, with user interaction being necessary in a local attack scenario.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-37274

Auto-GPT, prior to version 0.4.3, allows a path traversal attack through the

execute_python_code

command, enabling unauthorized file overwrites outside the workspace directory and potential arbitrary code execution on the host system.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability stems from the improper handling of user input, leading to the execution of Python code outside the intended sandboxed environment, resulting in unauthorized access and potential system compromise.

Affected Systems and Versions

Auto-GPT versions below 0.4.3 are affected by this vulnerability, with

execute_python_code

functionality posing a significant security risk due to insufficient input validation.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by providing a malicious

basename

argument to overwrite critical files on the host system and execute arbitrary code within the Auto-GPT environment.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-37274, it is crucial to take immediate action to secure systems running vulnerable versions of Auto-GPT and implement long-term security practices to prevent similar exploits.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade to Auto-GPT version 0.4.3 or newer to apply the necessary patches and input validation mechanisms, ensuring that the

execute_python_code

operation is secure against path traversal attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Consider running Auto-GPT in a virtual machine environment or isolated container to limit the impact of potential file modifications and code execution exploits, reducing the risk of unauthorized system access.

Patching and Updates

Regularly monitor and apply security updates to Auto-GPT to address potential vulnerabilities promptly and enhance the overall security posture of the application.