CVE-2023-38831: RARLAB WinRAR Code Execution Vulnerability
First published: Wed Aug 23 2023(Updated: )
RARLAB WinRAR before 6.23 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code when a user attempts to view a benign file within a ZIP archive. The issue occurs because a ZIP archive may include a benign file (such as an ordinary .JPG file) and also a folder that has the same name as the benign file, and the contents of the folder (which may include executable content) are processed during an attempt to access only the benign file. This was exploited in the wild in April through October 2023.
Credit: cve@mitre.org cve@mitre.org
| Affected Software | Affected Version | How to fix |
|---|---|---|
| RARLAB WinRAR | <6.23 | |
Remedy
Apply mitigations per vendor instructions or discontinue use of the product if mitigations are unavailable.
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Reference Links
- http://packetstormsecurity.com/files/174573/WinRAR-Remote-Code-Execution.html
- https://blog.google/threat-analysis-group/government-backed-actors-exploiting-winrar-vulnerability/
- https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=37236100
- https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/winrar-zero-day-exploited-since-april-to-hack-trading-accounts/
- https://www.group-ib.com/blog/cve-2023-38831-winrar-zero-day/
- http://www.win-rar.com/singlenewsview.html?&L=0&tx_ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=232&cHash=c5bf79590657e32554c6683296a8e8aa
- https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/bumblebee-malware-attacks-are-back-after-4-month-break/
- https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/hackers-used-new-windows-defender-zero-day-to-drop-darkme-malware/
- https://www.theregister.com/2024/02/14/patch_tuesday_feb_2024/
Peer vulnerabilities
(Found alongside the following vulnerabilities)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CVE-2023-38831?
CVE-2023-38831 is a code execution vulnerability in RARLAB WinRAR software.
How does CVE-2023-38831 work?
CVE-2023-38831 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code when a user attempts to view a benign file within a ZIP archive.
What is the severity of CVE-2023-38831?
CVE-2023-38831 has a severity rating of 7.8, which is considered high.
Which software is affected by CVE-2023-38831?
RARLAB WinRAR versions up to and including 6.23 are affected by CVE-2023-38831.
How can I fix CVE-2023-38831?
To fix CVE-2023-38831, update to a version of RARLAB WinRAR that is higher than 6.23.
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