CVE-2025-27407

Remediation/Mitigation Strategy for CVE-2025-27407 - GraphQL-Ruby Remote Code Execution

Vulnerability Description:

CVE-2025-27407 is a critical vulnerability affecting the graphql-ruby gem, a Ruby implementation of GraphQL. It allows for Remote Code Execution (RCE) when loading a malicious schema definition using GraphQL::Schema.from_introspection or GraphQL::Schema::Loader.load. This means that an attacker can execute arbitrary code on a server if it loads a GraphQL schema from an untrusted source. This is particularly dangerous for applications using GraphQL::Client to load external schemas via GraphQL introspection.

Severity:

  • Critical - This vulnerability allows for unauthenticated Remote Code Execution (RCE), which is the highest level of severity. An attacker can gain complete control of the affected server.

Known Exploit:

  • Exploit Availability: The advisory indicates a known exploit exists, as the vulnerability allows for RCE by loading a malicious schema. While the specific exploit code isn’t provided here, the nature of the vulnerability suggests that creating an exploit is feasible.

Affected Versions:

  • Versions before 1.11.8
  • Versions before 1.12.25
  • Versions before 1.13.24
  • Versions before 2.0.32
  • Versions before 2.1.14
  • Versions before 2.2.17
  • Versions before 2.3.21

Mitigation/Remediation Strategy:

The primary and immediate solution is to upgrade the graphql-ruby gem to a patched version. However, in the event that patching is not immediately possible, additional layers of defense should be implemented.

1. Upgrade graphql-ruby gem (Primary Remediation):

  • Action: Immediately upgrade the graphql-ruby gem to one of the following patched versions or later:

    • 1.11.8
    • 1.12.25
    • 1.13.24
    • 2.0.32
    • 2.1.14
    • 2.2.17
    • 2.3.21

  • Command (using bundler): bundle update graphql

  • Verification: After upgrading, verify the gem version to ensure the correct patch is applied. bundle show graphql The output should show a version number equal to or greater than the versions listed above.

2. Restrict Untrusted Schema Loading (Short-Term Mitigation):

If immediate patching is not feasible, implement the following measures to reduce the attack surface:

  • Action: Immediately stop loading schemas from untrusted sources. This is the most effective short-term mitigation.

  • Implementation:

    • Code Review: Thoroughly review all code that uses GraphQL::Schema.from_introspection or GraphQL::Schema::Loader.load.
    • Disable External Introspection: Temporarily disable the ability to load external schemas via GraphQL introspection, especially if you suspect any interaction with potentially malicious external endpoints. This may involve commenting out or removing code related to loading external schemas.

3. Input Validation and Sanitization (Defense in Depth):

Even after upgrading, it’s good practice to implement input validation and sanitization, though it should not be relied upon as the primary line of defense against this vulnerability.

  • Action: Implement stringent input validation on the JSON schemas before loading them. This is difficult to do comprehensively, but it can add an additional layer of defense.

  • Implementation:

    • Schema Whitelisting: If possible, only allow loading schemas that conform to a predefined, trusted format.
    • Schema Size Limits: Implement limits on the size of the schema being loaded to prevent excessively large or complex schemas from being processed.
    • Object Type Restriction: Limit the object types allowed in the schema to only those that are strictly necessary.

4. Monitoring and Logging:

  • Action: Enhance monitoring and logging to detect suspicious activity related to GraphQL schema loading.

  • Implementation:

    • Log Schema Loading Events: Log every instance of GraphQL::Schema.from_introspection or GraphQL::Schema::Loader.load being called, including the source of the schema being loaded.
    • Monitor CPU Usage: Monitor CPU usage for unusual spikes or patterns that might indicate a successful exploit.
    • Security Information and Event Management (SIEM): Integrate logs into a SIEM system for centralized monitoring and alerting.

5. Vulnerability Scanning:

  • Action: Perform regular vulnerability scans of your Ruby applications, including dependency checks.

  • Implementation:

    • Use Security Scanning Tools: Employ tools like bundler-audit or Snyk to identify vulnerable dependencies in your Gemfile.

6. Incident Response Plan:

  • Action: Ensure a well-defined incident response plan is in place to handle potential security breaches, including steps for isolating affected systems, containing the damage, and restoring services.

Timeline:

  • Immediate: Upgrade the graphql-ruby gem and restrict untrusted schema loading.
  • Within 1 Week: Implement input validation, enhance monitoring, and conduct vulnerability scanning.
  • Ongoing: Regularly review and update the incident response plan and maintain continuous vulnerability scanning.

Communication:

  • Communicate the vulnerability and remediation steps to all relevant stakeholders, including developers, operations teams, and security personnel.
  • Maintain clear documentation of the remediation efforts and any workarounds implemented.

By following this remediation and mitigation strategy, you can significantly reduce the risk posed by CVE-2025-27407. Remember that continuous monitoring and vigilance are essential to maintaining a secure environment.

Assigner

Date

  • Published Date: 2025-03-12 18:15:58
  • Updated Date: 2025-03-12 21:15:43

More Details

CVE-2025-27407