CPython 3.12.0 subprocess setgroups regression causes PID root privilege issue
CVE-2023-6507 Published on December 8, 2023
Groups not dropped before running subprocess when using empty 'extra_groups' parameter
An issue was found in CPython 3.12.0 `subprocess` module on POSIX platforms. The issue was fixed in CPython 3.12.1 and does not affect other stable releases.
When using the `extra_groups=` parameter with an empty list as a value (ie `extra_groups=[]`) the logic regressed to not call `setgroups(0, NULL)` before calling `exec()`, thus not dropping the original processes' groups before starting the new process. There is no issue when the parameter isn't used or when any value is used besides an empty list.
This issue only impacts CPython processes run with sufficient privilege to make the `setgroups` system call (typically `root`).
Vulnerability Analysis
Weakness Type
Improper Privilege Management
The software does not properly assign, modify, track, or check privileges for an actor, creating an unintended sphere of control for that actor.
Products Associated with CVE-2023-6507
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Affected Versions
Python Software Foundation CPython:- Version 3.12.0 and below 3.12.1 is affected.
- Version 3.13.0a1 and below 3.13.0a3 is affected.
- Version 3.13.0 is affected.
- Version 3.12.0 is affected.
Exploit Probability
EPSS (Exploit Prediction Scoring System) scores estimate the probability that a vulnerability will be exploited in the wild within the next 30 days. The percentile shows you how this score compares to all other vulnerabilities.