#VU73170 Heap-based buffer overflow in Vim - CVE-2023-1170

Vulnerability identifier: #VU73170

Vulnerability risk: High

CVSSv4.0: 5.7 [CVSS:4.0/AV:L/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-2023-1170

CWE-ID: CWE-122

Exploitation vector: Network

Exploit availability: No

Vulnerable software:
Vim
Client/Desktop applications / Software for system administration

Vendor: Vim.org

Description

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

The vulnerability exists due to a boundary error within the utf_ptr2char() function in mbyte.c. A remote attacker can trick the victim to open a specially crafted file, trigger a heap-based buffer overflow and execute arbitrary code on the target system.

Successful exploitation of this vulnerability may result in complete compromise of vulnerable system.

Mitigation
Install updates from vendor's website.

Vulnerable software versions

Vim: 9.0.0000 - 9.0.1375

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External links
https://github.com/vim/vim/commit/1c73b65229c25e3c1fd8824ba958f7cc4d604f9c
https://huntr.dev/bounties/286e0090-e654-46d2-ac60-29f81799d0a4

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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.