macos: Process Control
CVE-2023-40299 is a high-severity process control vulnerability in macos from Kong Insomnia, with a CVSS 3.1 base score of 7.8 out of 10. It can be exploited with local access to the system by an unauthenticated attacker, but only if a user takes part, for example by opening a link or file. Affected macos versions: all versions. The record does not name a fixed version, so check the vendor advisory. There is no confirmed exploitation so far. EPSS estimates a 0.43% chance of exploitation within 30 days, which is low compared with other CVEs.
High severity with no evidence of exploitation so far.
What to do
- Check which version of macos you run against the affected versions below, and install the vendor's latest release.
- Because the attack needs a user to take part, warn users about unexpected links and files related to this product until it is patched.
Affected products and versions
| Vendor | Product | Affected versions | Fixed in |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kong Insomnia | macos | all versions | Not stated |
| Konghq | Insomnia | 2023.4.0 | Not stated |
Version data comes from the organisation that assigned the CVE. Confirm against the vendor advisory before deciding you are unaffected.
How the severity score breaks down
- Attack vector
- LocalThe attacker needs local access or must trick a user into running something.
- Attack complexity
- LowNo special conditions are needed; the attack works reliably.
- Privileges required
- NoneNo account or login is needed.
- User interaction
- RequiredA user must take an action such as opening a file or link.
- Scope
- UnchangedImpact stays within the vulnerable component.
- Confidentiality
- HighAll data handled by the component can be read.
- Integrity
- HighData or code can be modified at will.
- Availability
- HighThe component can be taken down completely.
Vector: CVSS:3.1/AV:L/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H. Scored by NVD.
Official description
Kong Insomnia 2023.4.0 on macOS allows attackers to execute code and access restricted files, or make requests for TCC permissions, by using the DYLD_INSERT_LIBRARIES environment variable.
Source: the CVE record as published by its numbering authority, via NVD and CVE.org.
The underlying weakness: Process Control
Executing commands or loading libraries from an untrusted source or in an untrusted environment can cause an application to execute malicious commands (and payloads) on behalf of an attacker.
Timeline
- CVE record published.
- CISA published its SSVC assessment (exploitation: poc, automatable: no, technical impact: total).
- Record last changed materially (score, affected products, status or references).
References
Patches and release notes
- github.com/Kong/insomnia/pull/6217/commits
- github.com/Kong/insomnia/releasesRelease Notes
- insomnia.rest/changelogRelease Notes
Technical write-ups (may include proof of concept)
- angelystor.com/posts/cve-2023-40299/Exploit, Third Party Advisory
Recent Process Control vulnerabilities
- 7.8 High severity
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