CVE-2021-28119:Twinkle Tray through 1.13.3 allows remote command execution via crafted IPC messages to the exposed ipcRenderer interface.

splash
Back

Description Preview

Twinkle Tray (also known as twinkle-tray) versions through 1.13.3 contain a critical vulnerability that allows remote command execution. The application exposes a vulnerable ipcRenderer IPC interface that can be exploited by remote attackers. By sending specially crafted IPC messages to this interface, attackers can invoke the dangerous openExternal API, which can lead to arbitrary command execution on the affected system. This vulnerability puts users at significant risk as it could allow attackers to gain control over the victim's system.

Overview

Twinkle Tray is a Windows utility application that allows users to manage the brightness of multiple monitors from the system tray. The vulnerability exists in the application's IPC (Inter-Process Communication) implementation, where the ipcRenderer interface is exposed without proper security controls. The application incorrectly implements Electron's IPC functionality, allowing malicious actors to send crafted messages that can trigger the openExternal API. This API is considered dangerous because it can be used to execute arbitrary commands on the host system when provided with specially crafted input. The vulnerability affects all versions of Twinkle Tray up to and including version 1.13.3.

Remediation

Users of Twinkle Tray should immediately update to a version newer than 1.13.3 if available. If an updated version is not available, consider temporarily uninstalling the application until a security patch is released.

For developers maintaining similar Electron-based applications:

  1. Implement proper validation and sanitization of all IPC messages
  2. Avoid exposing the ipcRenderer interface directly to potentially untrusted content
  3. If using the openExternal API, implement strict URL validation to prevent command injection
  4. Consider using contextIsolation and a preload script to create a secure bridge between renderer processes and the main process
  5. Follow the Electron Security Guidelines for handling IPC communications

References

  1. GitHub Issue Detailing the Vulnerability: https://github.com/xanderfrangos/twinkle-tray/issues/142
  2. Electron Security Documentation: https://www.electronjs.org/docs/latest/tutorial/security
  3. OWASP Guidelines on Command Injection Prevention: https://owasp.org/www-community/attacks/Command_Injection

Industry ExposureMost to least
This section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.

  1. Accommodation & Food Services
    Accommodation & Food Services
  2. Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
    Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
  3. Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
    Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
  4. Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
    Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
  5. Construction
    Construction
  6. Educational Services
    Educational Services
  7. Finance and Insurance
    Finance and Insurance
  8. Health Care & Social Assistance
    Health Care & Social Assistance
  9. Information
    Information
  10. Management of Companies & Enterprises
    Management of Companies & Enterprises
  11. Manufacturing
    Manufacturing
  12. Mining
    Mining
  13. Other Services (except Public Administration)
    Other Services (except Public Administration)
  14. Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
    Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
  15. Public Administration
    Public Administration
  16. Real Estate Rental & Leasing
    Real Estate Rental & Leasing
  17. Retail Trade
    Retail Trade
  18. Transportation & Warehousing
    Transportation & Warehousing
  19. Utilities
    Utilities
  20. Wholesale Trade
    Wholesale Trade

Focus on What Matters

  1. See Everything.
  2. Identify True Risk.
  3. Proactively Mitigate Threats.

Let's talk!

background