CVE-2023-40481
Published: 03 May 2024
Summary
CVE-2023-40481 is a high-severity Out-of-bounds Write (CWE-787) vulnerability in 7-Zip 7-Zip. Its CVSS base score is 7.8 (High).
Operationally, ranked in the top 6.1% of CVEs by exploit likelihood; it is not currently listed in the CISA KEV catalog.
Deeper analysis
CVE-2023-40481 is an out-of-bounds write vulnerability in 7-Zip's handling of SquashFS (SQFS) files. The flaw stems from insufficient validation of user-supplied data during file parsing, allowing a write past the end of an allocated buffer. It affects 7-Zip installations and carries a CVSS 7.8 score reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability when successfully exploited.
Remote attackers can leverage the issue for arbitrary code execution in the context of the current 7-Zip process. Exploitation requires user interaction, specifically that the target open a malicious SQFS file or visit a page serving one, after which the attacker gains code execution on the affected system.
The EPSS score has remained flat at a peak of 0.1080 since disclosure, indicating no material increase in observed exploitation interest. Public references point to Zero Day Initiative advisory ZDI-23-1164 and associated SourceForge discussion threads for further vendor details.
EU & UK References
- 🇪🇺 ENISA EUVD: EUVD-2023-45052
Vulnerability details
7-Zip SquashFS File Parsing Out-Of-Bounds Write Remote Code Execution Vulnerability. This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected installations of 7-Zip. User interaction is required to exploit this vulnerability in that the target must visit a malicious…
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page or open a malicious file. The specific flaw exists within the parsing of SQFS files. The issue results from the lack of proper validation of user-supplied data, which can result in a write past the end of an allocated buffer. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to execute code in the context of the current process. Was ZDI-CAN-18589.
- CWE(s)
Related Threats
No named actor attribution yet. ATT&CK technique mapping in progress for this CVE.
Affected Assets
Mitigating Controls
Likely Mitigating Controls AI
Per-CVE control mapping for this CVE has not run yet; the list below is derived from the weakness types (CWEs) cited in the NVD entry.
Out-of-bounds writes that corrupt control flow or inject shellcode are rendered non-executable by the same memory protections.