CVE-2018-5226 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2018-5226, a security vulnerability in Sourcetree for Windows allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code. Find mitigation steps and affected versions.
A security vulnerability was discovered in Sourcetree for Windows that allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code on the system by creating a tag on a Mercurial repository connected to Sourcetree. This issue affects versions of Sourcetree for Windows prior to 2.5.5.0.
Understanding CVE-2018-5226
This CVE involves an OS Command Injection vulnerability in Sourcetree for Windows.
What is CVE-2018-5226?
CVE-2018-5226 is a security vulnerability in Sourcetree for Windows that enables attackers to execute arbitrary code by manipulating tag creation on a Mercurial repository.
The Impact of CVE-2018-5226
The vulnerability allows attackers to gain code execution on the system, posing a significant security risk to affected systems.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-5226
This section provides detailed technical information about the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in Sourcetree for Windows allows attackers to exploit the Mercurial repository tag creation process to execute arbitrary code on the system.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: SourceTree Windows
- Vendor: Atlassian
- Versions Affected: All versions prior to 2.5.5.0
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers with the privilege to create a tag on a Mercurial repository connected to Sourcetree can exploit this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code on the system.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protect your system from CVE-2018-5226 by following these mitigation strategies.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update Sourcetree for Windows to version 2.5.5.0 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Restrict user permissions to create tags on Mercurial repositories to minimize the attack surface.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly monitor and audit tag creation activities on Mercurial repositories to detect any suspicious behavior.
- Educate users on secure coding practices and the risks associated with arbitrary code execution.
Patching and Updates
Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates for Sourcetree for Windows to address known vulnerabilities.