CVE-2023-39956 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Electron: Out-of-package code execution when launched with arbitrary cwd

Understanding CVE-2023-39956

Electron framework allows cross-platform desktop applications using JavaScript, HTML, and CSS. The CVE specifically affects Electron apps launched as command line executables.

What is CVE-2023-39956?

Electron apps are vulnerable to out-of-package code execution when launched with an arbitrary current working directory. This issue can only be exploited under specific conditions, making the risk relatively low.

The Impact of CVE-2023-39956

The vulnerability can be exploited if an attacker controls the working directory and has the ability to write files to that directory. While these conditions limit the risk, the issue bypasses certain protections like ASAR Integrity.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-39956

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows for code execution outside of the intended package when Electron apps are launched with an attacker-controlled working directory.

Affected Systems and Versions

Vendor: Electron
Product: Electron
Affected Versions: < 22.3.19, >= 23.0.0, < 23.3.13, >= 24.0.0, < 24.7.1, >= 25.0.0, < 25.4.1, >= 26.0.0-beta.1, < 26.0.0-beta.13

Exploitation Mechanism

The issue can be exploited when an Electron app is launched with a malicious working directory, allowing for unauthorized code execution.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update their Electron apps to the patched versions:

26.0.0-beta.13

,

25.4.1

,

24.7.1

,

23.3.13

, or

22.3.19

to mitigate the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Developers should ensure app launches do not allow for arbitrary working directories to prevent similar vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Regularly update Electron apps to the latest versions to protect against potential security risks and vulnerabilities.