CVE-2009-0315: Medium severity Xchat xchat vulnerability
Untrusted search path vulnerability in the Python module in xchat allows local users to execute arbitrary code via a Trojan horse Python file in the current working directory, related to a vulnerability in the PySysSetArgv function (CVE-2008-5983).
Other sources
Untrusted search path vulnerability in the Python module of xchat allows local users to execute arbitrary code via a Trojan horse Python file in the current working directory, related to an erroneous setting of sys.path by the PySysSetArgv function.
References (test case, PoC): http://www.nabble.com/Bug-484305%3A-bicyclerepair%3A-bike.vim-imports-untrusted-python-files-from-cwd-td18848099.html
Proposed patch: The Debian patch for similar dia's Python related issue, available at:
http://bugs.debian.org/cgi-bin/bugreport.cgi?msg=5;filename=pythonpath.diff;att=1;bug=504251
should be sufficient to resolve this issue.
— Red Hat
Affected Software
Remediation
Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.
- Upgrade
Upgrade to a fixed release to a version that resolves this vulnerability.
Patch pythonpath.diff - Configuration
Initialize or modify sys.path so it does not contain the empty-string entry (which represents the current working directory); remove '' or other CWD entries from sys.path to prevent importing untrusted Python files from the current working directory.
HexChat Python module sys.path = do not include current working directory (remove empty-string entry)
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2009-0315?
CVE-2009-0315 is considered a high severity vulnerability as it allows local users to execute arbitrary code.
How do I fix CVE-2009-0315?
To mitigate CVE-2009-0315, ensure that the XChat module is updated to a version that addresses this vulnerability.
What are the potential consequences of CVE-2009-0315?
The potential consequences of CVE-2009-0315 include unauthorized execution of code and compromise of system integrity by local users.
Who is affected by CVE-2009-0315?
CVE-2009-0315 affects local users of the XChat application that utilizes the Python module.
What type of vulnerability is CVE-2009-0315?
CVE-2009-0315 is classified as an untrusted search path vulnerability.