virtualenv is a tool for creating isolated virtual python environments. Prior to 21.7.12, BatchActivator.quote() returns prompt text unchanged before activate.bat inserts it into a cmd.exe set "VAR=value" statement. An attacker who influences --prompt, VIRTUALENV_PROMPT, or the corresponding configuration value can include a double quote that closes the assignment and leaves following cmd.exe operators as executable syntax.
When a user activates the generated Windows environment, the injected commands run with that user's privileges. This issue is fixed in version 21.7.12.
Attack Parameters
Attack Vector
Local
Requires local access
Attack Complexity
Low
Easy to exploit
Attack Requirements
Present
Additional conditions required
Privileges Required
None
No privileges needed
User Interaction
Passive
Minimal interaction
Impact Assessment
Confidentiality
High
Complete data leak
Integrity
High
Complete data modification
Availability
High
Complete denial of service
CVSS Vector v4.0
Weakness Type (CWE)
Vulnerable Products
pypa:virtualenv
References 4
https://github.com/pypa/virtualenv/security/advisories/GHSA-x78j-v8h9-3j2q
https://github.com/pypa/virtualenv/security/advisories/GHSA-x78j-v8h9-3j2q
https://github.com/pypa/virtualenv/pull/3250
https://github.com/pypa/virtualenv/pull/3250
https://github.com/pypa/virtualenv/commit/d721ff140ce4afdc2a9b76751e4584e25d9fb…
https://github.com/pypa/virtualenv/commit/d721ff140ce4afdc2a9b76751e4584e25d9fbea6
https://github.com/pypa/virtualenv/releases/tag/21.7.12
https://github.com/pypa/virtualenv/releases/tag/21.7.12