CVE-2025-24359 is a high-severity vulnerability found in the ASTEVAL library, a tool used for evaluating Python expressions and statements. The vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary Python code if they can control the input to the library. This exploit arises from the way ASTEVAL handles `FormattedValue` AST nodes, specifically through the dangerous format method of the str class. The potential for abuse is significant, and organizations utilizing this library must take immediate action.
The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 8.4, indicating a high severity classification. It is characterized by a local attack vector and low attack complexity, which suggests that exploitation does not require advanced skills. The attack can be executed without user interaction and does not require any privileges, making it particularly dangerous for applications that rely on this library. Organizations need to prioritize addressing this vulnerability as it poses a substantial risk to sensitive data.
As of now, the vulnerability status is marked as deferred, indicating that it may not be actively exploited in the wild. However, this does not diminish the risk it presents. The potential for unauthorized access to sensitive or protected object properties through this vulnerability highlights the urgency for organizations to adopt remediation measures.
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately. The issue is addressed in version 1.0.6 of the ASTEVAL library, and users are strongly advised to update to this version or later to mitigate the risk.
In summary, CVE-2025-24359 presents a high-severity vulnerability that requires urgent attention. Organizations utilizing ASTEVAL should ensure they are operating the latest version and monitor for any signs of exploitation.
Vulnerability Details
The ASTEVAL library evaluates Python expressions and statements. The vulnerability allows attackers to bypass restrictions and execute arbitrary Python code within the context of the application. This issue is rooted in the handling of `FormattedValue` AST nodes and can be exploited to access protected attributes by triggering an `AttributeError` exception. The attacker can then use the `obj` attribute to gain unauthorized access to sensitive properties.
CVE-2025-24359 has a CVSS score of 8.4, classified as high severity. The attack vector is local, requiring a user to have some level of access to the system where the library is used, but the attack complexity is low. No privileges are required, and there is no need for user interaction. The confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts are all rated as high.
The vulnerability was published on January 24, 2025, and is classified under CWEs CWE-134 and CWE-749. The risk associated with this vulnerability necessitates immediate action from organizations using the library.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability lies in how ASTEVAL handles `FormattedValue` AST nodes. Specifically, the `on_formattedvalue` method utilizes a format call that can be manipulated by an attacker. By controlling the input to the `asteval` library, an attacker can exploit this behavior to execute arbitrary code.
The attack vector is local, meaning that an attacker needs access to the application that utilizes the ASTEVAL library. The attack complexity is low, indicating that the exploit can be carried out with minimal effort. Additionally, no privileges are needed to exploit this vulnerability, making it accessible to a wide range of attackers.
User interaction is not required, allowing an attacker to execute the exploit without any action from legitimate users. The impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability are all rated as high, reflecting the significant risk posed to organizations.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Risk to organizations includes unauthorized access to sensitive data, as this vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary code. The ability to access protected attributes through exception handling means that an attacker could potentially gain control of sensitive application functionalities.
The blast radius for this vulnerability is considerable, especially for applications that process user input via the ASTEVAL library. Organizations should assess their exposure and prioritize addressing this vulnerability based on its CVSS score and potential impact.
Given the high severity of this vulnerability, organizations should act promptly to mitigate risks. The urgency for patching can be categorized as high, necessitating immediate remediation efforts to ensure the safety and security of the applications utilizing this library.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
All versions prior to vendor patch (1.0.6) are affected by this vulnerability. Users should ensure they upgrade to version 1.0.6 or later to mitigate the risk associated with this vulnerability.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately by updating the ASTEVAL library to version 1.0.6 or later. If the patch is not immediately available, organizations can implement workarounds such as input validation to restrict the types of inputs processed by the library.
Configuration hardening should also be considered to limit access to the application and its associated libraries. Implementing network controls, such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems, can further protect against potential attacks exploiting this vulnerability. Regular monitoring of application logs for unusual activities is recommended to quickly identify any attempts at exploitation.
For further guidance, organizations can refer to our application security assessment services.
Detection Guidance
To detect potential exploitation of this vulnerability, organizations should monitor log indicators for any unusual access patterns or errors related to the ASTEVAL library. Behavioral anomalies, such as unexpected application behavior or performance degradation, should also be investigated. Implementing network signatures that flag known patterns associated with this exploit can help in early detection.
Additionally, organizations should watch for system changes that could indicate an attempted exploit, such as unauthorized access to sensitive properties or unexpected exceptions related to `AttributeError` handling.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of CVE-2025-24359 highlights the need for continuous vigilance in application security, especially concerning libraries that evaluate or execute code. This vulnerability exemplifies a trend where attackers exploit complex input handling to gain unauthorized access.
Security teams should learn from this incident and consider implementing stricter input validation and output encoding practices in their development processes. This vulnerability underscores the importance of thorough code reviews, especially for libraries that handle user-generated content.
Organizations looking to enhance their security posture should consider engaging in red teaming services to simulate potential attack scenarios and identify weaknesses in their defenses.
Additionally, continuous education and training on current security threats are essential for development teams to mitigate risks associated with vulnerabilities like CVE-2025-24359.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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