#VU27812 Input validation error in Visual Studio Code Python Extension - CVE-2020-1171

Vulnerability identifier: #VU27812

Vulnerability risk: High

CVSSv4.0: 6.1 [CVSS:4.0/AV:N/AC:L/AT:N/PR:N/UI:A/VC:H/VI:H/VA:H/SC:N/SI:N/SA:N/E:U/U:Amber]

CVE-ID: CVE-2020-1171

CWE-ID: CWE-20

Exploitation vector: Network

Exploit availability: No

Vulnerable software:
Visual Studio Code Python Extension
Web applications / Modules and components for CMS

Vendor: Microsoft

Description

The vulnerability allows a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code on the target system.

The vulnerability exists in the Visual Studio Code when the Python extension loads configuration files after opening a project. A remote attacker can trick a victim to clone a repository and open it in Visual Studio Code with the Python extension installed.

Attacker-specified code would execute when the target opened the integrated terminal.

Mitigation
Install updates from vendor's website.

Vulnerable software versions

Visual Studio Code Python Extension: before 2020.5.78807

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External links
https://portal.msrc.microsoft.com/en-US/security-guidance/advisory/CVE-2020-1171

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Q & A

Can this vulnerability be exploited remotely?

Yes. This vulnerability can be exploited by a remote non-authenticated attacker via the Internet.

Is there known malware, which exploits this vulnerability?

No. We are not aware of malware exploiting this vulnerability.