CVE-2023-29007 is a high-severity vulnerability impacting Git, a widely used revision control system. This vulnerability allows attackers to exploit a bug found in the `config.c::git_config_copy_or_rename_section_in_file()` function, specifically through specially crafted `.gitmodules` files. The vulnerability affects all versions prior to 2.30.9, 2.31.8, 2.32.7, 2.33.8, 2.34.8, 2.35.8, 2.36.6, 2.37.7, 2.38.5, 2.39.3, and 2.40.1.
The exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to arbitrary configuration injection into a user's `$GIT_DIR/config`. This occurs when submodule URLs longer than 1024 characters are processed. If attackers manage to inject configuration values that specify executables (such as `core.pager`, `core.editor`, or `core.sshCommand`), it can result in remote code execution.
Organizations using affected versions of Git should prioritize patching immediately. The fix is available in the aforementioned versions. For those unable to upgrade immediately, it is advised to avoid running `git submodule deinit` on untrusted repositories or without inspecting the submodule sections in `$GIT_DIR/config`.
The urgency for defenders to act on this vulnerability is underscored by its high CVSS score of 7.0, indicating a significant risk to confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
Vulnerability Details
According to the CVE description, this vulnerability allows attackers to exploit arbitrary configuration injections through crafted `.gitmodules` files. The affected versions are all prior to 2.30.9, as well as various other versions up to 2.40.1. The vulnerability falls under the CWE classification of CWE-74 (Injection).
The CVSS base score of 7.0 indicates a high severity level, highlighting the significant risk associated with this vulnerability.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of CVE-2023-29007 lies in the mishandling of `.gitmodules` files with excessively long submodule URLs. When these files are processed, the underlying code attempts to remove configuration sections associated with these submodules, which inadvertently opens up the possibility for an attacker to inject malicious configurations.
The attack vector is local, requiring the attacker to have access to the system where Git operates. Given the attack complexity is rated as high, user interaction is required, as the attacker must convince a user to run specific commands that would trigger the vulnerability.
In terms of impacts, the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the system are all rated as high, indicating that successful exploitation could lead to significant data loss or system compromise.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Risk to organizations includes potential unauthorized access to sensitive data and execution of arbitrary commands. The vulnerability's characteristics suggest it can be utilized in targeted attacks, posing a risk to the integrity and availability of affected systems.
The exploitability of this vulnerability is considered high, given that there are known proof-of-concept repositories available on GitHub. This heightens the urgency for organizations to address this vulnerability in their environments.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | Yes |
Public PoC | Yes |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The following versions of Git are affected: all versions prior to 2.30.9, as well as 2.31.0 to 2.31.8, 2.32.0 to 2.32.7, 2.33.0 to 2.33.8, 2.34.0 to 2.34.8, 2.35.0 to 2.35.8, 2.36.0 to 2.36.5, 2.37.0 to 2.37.7, 2.38.0 to 2.38.5, 2.39.0 to 2.39.3, and the first version of 2.40.0.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should prioritize patching Git to the latest versions, specifically 2.30.9, 2.31.8, 2.32.7, 2.33.8, 2.34.8, 2.35.8, 2.36.6, 2.37.7, 2.38.5, 2.39.3, and 2.40.1. They should also ensure that they are not running `git submodule deinit` on untrusted repositories without prior inspection of any submodule sections in `$GIT_DIR/config`. Further details on the patch can be found in the official release notes.
Organizations should consider penetration testing to validate their security posture against such vulnerabilities.
Detection Guidance
Monitoring Git repository logs for any unusual activities, especially alterations in submodule configurations, can be an effective detection strategy. Additionally, any unexpected execution of commands associated with Git should be flagged for further investigation.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of CVE-2023-29007 highlights the need for organizations to review their Git configurations and security practices continuously. This vulnerability demonstrates a common flaw in handling user inputs that can lead to severe consequences. It serves as a reminder for security teams to adopt defensive strategies and regularly review configurations to mitigate risks.
Organizations are encouraged to stay updated on emerging vulnerabilities and trends in order to enhance their security posture. It is vital to incorporate lessons learned from incidents such as CVE-2023-29007 into security training and awareness programs.
Regular penetration testing can help identify similar vulnerabilities and ensure that security practices are effective.
Implementing a robust vulnerability management program is essential for identifying and remediating vulnerabilities in a timely manner.
Following best practices in API security and configuration management can significantly reduce the attack surface for organizations.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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