Local directory executable lookup in sops (Windows-only)
Key facts
- Attack vector
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- Privileges required
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- User interaction
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- Attack complexity
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- Impact type
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- Confidentiality · integrity · availability
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- Fix status
- Fixed
No CVSS vector from any source. Fix status from GitHub.
Summary
### Impact Windows users using the sops direct editor option (`sops file.yaml`) can have a local executable named either `vi`, `vim`, or `nano` executed if running sops from `cmd.exe` This attack is only viable if an attacker is able to place a malicious binary within the directory you are running sops from. As well, this attack will only work when using `cmd.exe` or the Windows C library [SearchPath function](https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/win32/api/processenv/nf-processenv-searchpatha). This is a result of these Windows tools including `.` within their `PATH` by default. **If you are using sops within untrusted directories on Windows via `cmd.exe`, please upgrade immediately** **As well, if you have `.` within your default $PATH, please upgrade immediately.** More information can be found on the official Go blog: https://blog.golang.org/path-security ### Patches The problem has been resolved in v3.7.1 Now, if Windows users using cmd.exe run into this issue, a warning message will be printed: `vim resolves to executable in current directory (.\vim.exe)` ### References * https://blog.golang.org/path-security ### For more information If you have any questions or comments about this advisory: * Open a discussion in [sops](https://github.com/mozilla/sops/discussions)
Why it matters now
SSVC decision points
Not available: CISA has not published SSVC decision points for this record.
Affected products
| Vendor | Product | Affected versions | Fixed in | Status | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| — | go.mozilla.org/sops/v3 (Go) | before 3.7.1 | 3.7.1 | Patch available | GHSA-x5c7-x7m2-rhmf |
- go.mozilla.org/sops/v3 (Go) Vendor— Affected before 3.7.1 Fixed in 3.7.1 Patch available GHSA-x5c7-x7m2-rhmf
Remediation
- Fix · GHSA-x5c7-x7m2-rhmf go.mozilla.org/sops/v3 (Go) Fixed in 3.7.1 Advisory →
Timeline
- 2026-10-03 Threatist record created from GHSA-x5c7-x7m2-rhmf
Sources
This product uses the NVD API but is not endorsed or certified by the NVD. Sources and licences