CVE-2024-50340 is a high-severity vulnerability affecting the Symfony Runtime module, which is part of the Symfony PHP framework. This vulnerability allows attackers to manipulate the environment or debug mode of PHP applications when the `register_argv_argc` PHP directive is enabled. By crafting specific query strings, attackers can change how the kernel processes requests. As a result, organizations using the affected versions must prioritize remediation.
The CVSS score of this vulnerability is 7.3, indicating a high level of risk. The attack vector is network-based, and the attack complexity is low, meaning that exploitation could be easily executed without significant prerequisites. The urgency for patching is critical as this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized access and manipulation of application behavior.
There are currently no workarounds for this vulnerability. Organizations should ensure that they are running the latest versions of Symfony Runtime, specifically versions 5.4.46, 6.4.14, and 7.1.7, which have addressed this issue by ignoring `argv` values for non-SAPI PHP runtimes.
With the potential for high impact, organizations must assess their exposure to this vulnerability and implement necessary patches immediately to prevent exploitation.
Vulnerability Details
The vulnerability allows attackers to change the environment or debug mode used by the kernel when handling requests. This is particularly concerning when the `register_argv_argc` PHP directive is set to `on`. The vulnerability has been classified under CWE-74, which relates to improper neutralization of special elements in output used by a downstream component.
The CVSS vector for this vulnerability is CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:L/I:L/A:L, indicating a high risk due to its network attack vector and low complexity of exploitation. The affected versions of Symfony Runtime require updates to prevent potential exploitation.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of CVE-2024-50340 lies in how the Symfony Runtime handles the `argv` values for non-SAPI PHP runtimes. By allowing changes to the environment through crafted query strings, attackers can manipulate the execution context of PHP applications. This can lead to unauthorized access and potential data exposure.
The attack vector is primarily network-based, meaning that an attacker can exploit this vulnerability remotely. The attack complexity is classified as low, with no privileges required and no user interaction needed, making it an attractive target for cybercriminals.
The potential impacts include low confidentiality, integrity, and availability, as attackers could manipulate application behavior without direct access to sensitive data.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Risk to organizations includes potential unauthorized modifications to application settings, increasing the likelihood of further exploitation. The blast radius of this vulnerability is significant due to the widespread use of the Symfony framework in various applications. Organizations running affected versions must prioritize patching immediately.
This vulnerability's high CVSS score reflects the urgency for remediation. Organizations should assess their environment to determine the presence of this flaw and implement necessary updates. Failure to address this vulnerability could result in significant operational risks, including data breaches and system compromises.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | Yes |
Public PoC | Yes |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The affected versions of Symfony Runtime include 5.4.46, 6.4.14, and 7.1.7. Organizations using earlier versions should upgrade to these latest releases to mitigate the risk associated with this vulnerability.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations must implement the following measures to remediate this vulnerability:
1. Upgrade to the latest versions of Symfony Runtime (5.4.46, 6.4.14, or 7.1.7).
2. Review application configurations to ensure that the `register_argv_argc` directive is set appropriately.
3. Consider employing additional security measures such as input validation and sanitization.
For further guidance, organizations may refer to resources on application security assessment.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor logs for unusual activity related to request handling that could indicate exploitation attempts. Look for behavioral anomalies in application responses and review network signatures for known attack patterns.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
CVE-2024-50340 highlights the importance of secure coding practices, particularly in frameworks like Symfony that support a wide range of applications. This vulnerability reflects a broader trend of attackers exploiting misconfigurations and improper handling of input to gain unauthorized access.
Security teams should adopt proactive measures, including penetration testing methodologies, to identify and mitigate weaknesses before they can be exploited.
In addition, organizations should continuously evaluate their security posture through regular vulnerability management programs to ensure they are prepared for evolving threats in the cybersecurity landscape.
Finally, organizations should consider investing in continuous security testing to maintain ongoing awareness of potential vulnerabilities.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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