CVE-2025-22153 is a high-severity vulnerability identified in RestrictedPython, a tool designed to define a subset of the Python programming language that facilitates secure execution of user-provided input. The vulnerability arises from a type confusion bug in the CPython interpreter, affecting versions starting from 3.11 and prior to 3.13.2. This flaw allows attackers to bypass security measures within RestrictedPython versions 6.0 to 8.0, which could lead to unauthorized code execution. The issue has been addressed in version 8.0 of RestrictedPython, which removed support for `try/except*` clauses to mitigate this risk.
The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 7.9, indicating a high severity level. This classification reflects the potential impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Given the nature of the vulnerability, organizations utilizing RestrictedPython in their applications are at considerable risk, particularly if they are operating on unpatched versions. The vulnerability was published on January 23, 2025, and the urgency for organizations to address this vulnerability is high to prevent exploitation.
Currently, there are no known public exploits or proofs of concept (PoCs) related to this vulnerability, but the threat of exploitation remains due to its high severity and the existence of a type confusion issue. Organizations should prioritize patching this vulnerability in their systems to safeguard against potential attacks.
In summary, organizations using RestrictedPython must take immediate action to upgrade to version 8.0 or later to eliminate the risk posed by CVE-2025-22153. This proactive approach will help to maintain the integrity and security of their applications.
Vulnerability Details
The official description of this vulnerability states that it allows bypassing the security features of RestrictedPython. The type confusion bug arises when using `try/except*` in CPython versions from 3.11 to 3.13.2, which can result in unauthorized code execution. The vulnerability has been classified under CWE-843.
The CVSS score of 7.9 indicates that this vulnerability has a high severity level due to the potential impact on confidentiality and integrity, coupled with a low availability impact. Organizations using affected versions of RestrictedPython should take this vulnerability very seriously.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of CVE-2025-22153 is a type confusion bug that occurs in the CPython interpreter when executing RestrictedPython code under certain conditions. The attack vector is network-based, requiring high privileges to exploit. The attack complexity is high, and no user interaction is needed, allowing attackers with sufficient privileges to exploit the vulnerability directly.
The impact on confidentiality and integrity is high, as attackers may gain unauthorized access to sensitive information and modify data. Availability impact is low, which means that the exploitation does not significantly affect the service's uptime.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Risk to organizations includes the potential for unauthorized access and manipulation of sensitive data due to the bypass of security mechanisms in RestrictedPython. This vulnerability poses a significant threat to systems relying on RestrictedPython for secure code execution, especially in environments where untrusted input is processed.
Organizations should assess their use of RestrictedPython and prioritize the implementation of the vendor's patch to version 8.0 to mitigate risks associated with this vulnerability. The urgency for remediation is high, given the potential impact on the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive data.
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
This vulnerability affects RestrictedPython versions 6.0 through 7.x, inclusive. Organizations must upgrade to version 8.0 or higher to mitigate the associated risks. If version information is unavailable, it is crucial to assess all versions prior to the vendor's patch.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should immediately upgrade RestrictedPython to version 8.0 or above to remediate this vulnerability. In the absence of a patch, it is advisable to review configurations and restrict the use of potentially vulnerable code constructs.
Further proactive measures include conducting regular security assessments and utilizing penetration testing to identify and address security weaknesses.
Detection Guidance
Security teams should monitor logs for any unusual execution patterns or errors related to RestrictedPython. Additionally, behavioral anomalies in application responses may indicate attempts to exploit this vulnerability.
Relevant network signatures should be established to detect potential exploitation attempts. Regularly auditing system changes can help identify unauthorized modifications resulting from exploitation.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of CVE-2025-22153 lies in its demonstration of how subtle issues in programming language implementations can introduce critical vulnerabilities. This incident highlights the importance of thorough testing and validation in software development.
It represents a pattern where overlooked features, such as `try/except*` in this case, can lead to severe security risks, especially in environments that rely on dynamic code execution.
Security teams should take away the lesson that continuous vigilance and proactive security measures, including regular updates and audits, are essential in maintaining a secure software environment. For additional insights, organizations may explore our resources on vulnerability management and effective penetration testing methodologies to enhance their security posture.
Organizations should also review their security policies and ensure that all security measures are in place to address potential vulnerabilities in third-party libraries and frameworks.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
.webp)