CVE-2025-27607

Remediation/Mitigation Strategy for CVE-2025-27607: Python JSON Logger Remote Code Execution (RCE) Vulnerability

This document outlines the remediation and mitigation strategy for CVE-2025-27607, a Remote Code Execution (RCE) vulnerability affecting Python JSON Logger versions prior to 3.3.0.

1. Vulnerability Description:

  • Vulnerability: Remote Code Execution (RCE)
  • Description: Python JSON Logger versions prior to 3.3.0 were vulnerable to RCE due to a missing dependency (msgspec-python313-pre). The owner of this dependency deleted it, leaving the name open for malicious takeover. If a malicious actor claimed the name, they could inject malicious code into a package with that name. When users installed Python JSON Logger with development dependencies on Python 3.13 (e.g., pip install python-json-logger[dev]), the compromised msgspec-python313-pre package would be installed, allowing the attacker to execute arbitrary code on the user’s system.
  • Affected Versions: Python JSON Logger versions prior to 3.3.0
  • Root Cause: Deletion of the msgspec-python313-pre package from the Python Package Index (PyPI), allowing a potential attacker to create a malicious package with the same name.

2. Severity:

  • CVSS Score: 8.8 (High)
  • CVSS Vector: (Based on provided data - assuming default values for Confidentiality, Integrity, Availability) AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H (Network, Low Attack Complexity, No Privileges Required, User Interaction Required, Unchanged Scope, High Confidentiality Impact, High Integrity Impact, High Availability Impact)
  • Severity Level: High
  • Justification: Successful exploitation of this vulnerability allows a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code on the affected system, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data theft, and denial of service. The attack complexity is low as it requires only a user to install the package with the [dev] extra.

3. Known Exploit Information:

  • Exploit Status: Exploitation is possible if a malicious actor successfully claimed the msgspec-python313-pre package on PyPI and an end-user installs Python JSON Logger with the [dev] extra on Python 3.13.
  • Exploit Details: The attacker would package and upload a malicious version of msgspec-python313-pre to PyPI. The malicious package would contain code designed to execute arbitrary commands on the user’s system when installed.

4. Remediation Steps:

  • Immediate Action (Critical):

    • Upgrade Python JSON Logger: Immediately upgrade to Python JSON Logger version 3.3.0 or later. This version addresses the vulnerability by removing the dependency on the potentially compromised package. Use the following command:

          pip install --upgrade python-json-logger
*   **Audit Existing Installations:**  Identify all systems and environments where Python JSON Logger is installed.

    • Review Dependency Management: Carefully examine your project’s dependency files (e.g., requirements.txt, pyproject.toml) and ensure that only trusted packages are included. Consider using dependency pinning to ensure specific versions of packages are installed.

    • Check Installation Logs: Scrutinize installation logs for any suspicious activity related to the msgspec-python313-pre package during Python JSON Logger installation with [dev] on Python 3.13. Look for errors or warnings indicating issues during package installation.

  • Long-Term Mitigation:
    • Implement Dependency Scanning: Integrate a dependency scanning tool into your development pipeline to automatically identify and alert you to known vulnerabilities in your project’s dependencies. Tools like Snyk, Bandit, and Dependabot can help with this.
    • Software Bill of Materials (SBOM): Create and maintain an SBOM for your applications. This inventory of components helps you track vulnerabilities and simplifies the patching process.
    • Secure Development Practices: Adopt secure development practices, including:
      • Regularly updating dependencies.
      • Using virtual environments to isolate project dependencies.
      • Performing security audits of code and configurations.
    • Package Verification: Utilize package verification tools and techniques (e.g., checking package signatures) to ensure the integrity and authenticity of installed packages.

5. Mitigation Steps (If Upgrade is Not Immediately Possible):

While upgrading is the preferred solution, if an immediate upgrade to version 3.3.0 is not possible, the following mitigation steps can reduce the risk of exploitation:

  • Avoid Installing with [dev]: Crucially, never install Python JSON Logger with the [dev] extra on Python 3.13 until you can upgrade. This prevents the vulnerable dependency from being installed.
  • Network Segmentation: Isolate affected systems to minimize the potential impact of a successful exploit. Implement network segmentation and access control policies to limit the attacker’s ability to move laterally within the network.
  • Intrusion Detection/Prevention Systems (IDS/IPS): Configure IDS/IPS systems to detect and block any malicious activity potentially associated with this vulnerability. Look for unusual network traffic or system behavior originating from affected systems.
  • Monitor System Activity: Continuously monitor affected systems for any signs of compromise, such as unauthorized access, unusual process execution, or suspicious network connections.

6. Communication Plan:

  • Notify relevant stakeholders (developers, system administrators, security teams) about the vulnerability and the necessary remediation steps.
  • Provide clear and concise instructions on how to upgrade to version 3.3.0.
  • Establish a communication channel for reporting any potential incidents related to this vulnerability.

7. Post-Remediation Validation:

  • After applying the remediation steps, verify that Python JSON Logger has been successfully upgraded to version 3.3.0 or later.
  • Retest affected systems to ensure that the vulnerability has been effectively addressed.
  • Review and update security policies and procedures as necessary to prevent future occurrences.

Disclaimer: This remediation strategy is based on the information provided. It is recommended to consult with security experts and adapt the strategy to your specific environment and requirements. The effectiveness of this strategy depends on the accuracy of the provided information and the proper implementation of the recommended steps.

Assigner

Date

  • Published Date: 2025-03-07 16:18:14
  • Updated Date: 2025-03-07 18:15:48

More Details

CVE-2025-27607