CVE-2023-47104 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A security vulnerability has been identified in tinyfiledialogs (aka tiny file dialogs) before version 3.15.0 that allows shell metacharacters in various input fields, leading to potential exploitation. In this article, we will delve into the specifics of CVE-2023-47104 and understand its implications.

Understanding CVE-2023-47104

Tinyfiledialogs version 3.15.0 and earlier are susceptible to a security issue that permits the use of shell metacharacters in titles, messages, and other input fields. The incomplete fix for a previous CVE (CVE-2020-36767) is a contributing factor.

What is CVE-2023-47104?

CVE-2023-47104 is a vulnerability in tinyfiledialogs that enables the inclusion of shell metacharacters, like backquotes and dollar signs, in user input. This oversight poses a risk of unauthorized command execution and other malicious activities.

The Impact of CVE-2023-47104

The presence of shell metacharacters in user-supplied data can lead to command injection and arbitrary code execution. Attackers could exploit this vulnerability to manipulate the application and perform unauthorized actions.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-47104

Understanding the technical aspects of CVE-2023-47104 is crucial to implementing effective security measures.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in tinyfiledialogs allows threat actors to input shell metacharacters in titles and other fields, enabling potential exploitation of the system.

Affected Systems and Versions

All versions of tinyfiledialogs before 3.15.0 are impacted by CVE-2023-47104. Users of these vulnerable versions are at risk of exploitation through the misuse of shell metacharacters.

Exploitation Mechanism

By leveraging the ability to insert shell metacharacters, malicious actors can execute unauthorized commands within the application, compromising system integrity.

Mitigation and Prevention

To protect systems from the risks associated with CVE-2023-47104, prompt actions and security best practices are essential.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should update tinyfiledialogs to version 3.15.0 or later, where the security issue has been addressed. Avoiding input of suspicious characters can also mitigate the risk of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing input validation and sanitization mechanisms can help prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future. Regular security assessments and staying abreast of updates are critical.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security patches and updates for tinyfiledialogs to ensure that the latest fixes are applied promptly, reducing the vulnerability exposure.