CVE-2023-52137 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This article provides details about CVE-2023-52137, a vulnerability in the GitHub Action tj-actions/verify-changed-files that is susceptible to command injection in output filenames.

Understanding CVE-2023-52137

This section delves into the description, impact, and technical details of the CVE-2023-52137 vulnerability.

What is CVE-2023-52137?

The

tj-actions/verify-changed-files

GitHub Action is vulnerable to command injection in changed filenames, potentially allowing threat actors to execute unauthorized code and disclose sensitive information. This vulnerability arises from the ability to use special characters like

;

in filenames, which could be exploited to compromise the GitHub Runner when the output value is directly substituted and executed within a

run

block.

The Impact of CVE-2023-52137

Exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to the unauthorized execution of arbitrary commands, enabling malicious actors to access and misuse sensitive data, including secrets like

GITHUB_TOKEN

when triggered by events other than

pull_request

.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-52137

This section provides insight into the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in

tj-actions/verify-changed-files

allows threat actors to perform command injection in output filenames, facilitating the execution of malicious code and potential leakage of sensitive information.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability impacts versions prior to 17.0.0 of

tj-actions/verify-changed-files

, making them susceptible to exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

By manipulating filenames with special characters like

;

, attackers can inject commands and potentially compromise the GitHub Runner, leading to unauthorized code execution and data exposure.

Mitigation and Prevention

In response to CVE-2023-52137, users are advised to take immediate steps, adopt long-term security practices, and apply necessary patches and updates.

Immediate Steps to Take

Immediately upgrade to versions 17 and 17.0.0 of

tj-actions/verify-changed-files

, which address the vulnerability by defaulting to

safe_output

and employing filename path escaping for enhanced security.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strict input validation, avoid using special characters in filenames, and regularly monitor and update GitHub Actions workflows to mitigate the risk of command injections.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories and promptly apply patches and updates released by the

tj-actions/verify-changed-files

project to safeguard against potential vulnerabilities.