CVE-2024-50636

PyMOL 2.5.0 contains a vulnerability in its "Run Script" function, which allows the execution of arbitrary Python code embedded within .PYM files

Critical · published November 11, 2024

CVSS v3.1
9.8
EPSS
1%
Percentile
69.1
In the wild
Unconfirmed
What it is

🔥 An attacker can craft a malicious .PYM file to execute arbitrary Python code, giving them full access to your system! Think of PyMOL's "Run Script" function as a chef's special recipe book. If the chef blindly follows the recipe without checking the ingredients, they might end up serving a dish that contains something dangerous, like poison! With this vulnerability, an attacker could unleash a reverse shell payload, allowing them to take control of your system from afar. Imagine a burglar breaking into your house through a cleverly disguised back door, all because the front door was left wide open!

Put simply

Think of PyMOL's "Run Script" function as a chef's special recipe book. If the chef blindly follows the recipe without checking the ingredients, they might end up serving a dish that contains something dangerous, like poison! This vulnerability in PyMOL 2.5.0 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code by exploiting the insecure handling of .PYM files. Since the application blindly executes commands in these files without proper validation, the door is wide open for unauthorized actions.

What to do

With this vulnerability, an attacker could unleash a reverse shell payload, allowing them to take control of your system from afar. Imagine a burglar breaking into your house through a cleverly disguised back door, all because the front door was left wide open! To safeguard your systems, immediately update PyMOL to a patched version that addresses this vulnerability. Avoid opening any untrusted .PYM files and consider implementing additional security measures like running the application in a restricted environment. Your security matters! You've got this! Follow these steps, and you’ll have PyMOL locked down tighter than a drum! 🛡️

The record
Technical detail
CVSS v3.1
9.8 · CRITICAL
Vector
CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H
CVSS v4.0
Not supplied
EPSS
0.01246 · 69.1th percentile
Published
2024-11-11T00:00Z
EPSS history
Timeline
  • 11 NOV 00:00Z
    PyMOL 2.5.0 contains a vulnerability in its "Run Script" function, which allows the execution of arbitrary Python code embedded within .PYM files
    cvelistv5