NumPy pickle Python Module Remote Code Execution Vulnerability [CVE-2019-6446]

CVE Number – CVE-2019-6446

A vulnerability in NumPy could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to execute arbitrary code on a targeted system.

The vulnerability is due to the unsafe use of the pickle Python module by the affected software. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by persuading a user to access a link or file that submits malicious input to the targeted system. If the attacker makes a numpy.load call to load the malicious content, the attacker could execute arbitrary code. 

Proof-of-concept (PoC) code that demonstrates an exploit of this vulnerability is publicly available. 

NumPy has confirmed the vulnerability; however, software updates are not available.

Analysis

• To exploit this vulnerability, an attacker may persuade a user to load malicious content with the affected application on a targeted system by using misleading language and instructions.

Safeguards

• Administrators are advised to contact the vendor regarding future updates and releases.
  
  Administrators are advised to allow only trusted users to have network access.Administrators are advised to use an unprivileged account when browsing the Internet.
  
  Administrators are advised to monitor critical systems.Users are advised not to open email messages from suspicious or unrecognized sources. If users cannot verify that links or attachments included in email messages are safe, they are advised not to open them.
  
  Users are advised not to visit websites or follow links that have suspicious characteristics or cannot be verified as safe.

Vendor Announcements

• NumPy has release an issue report at the following link: Issue #12759

Fixed Software

• At the time this alert was first published, NumPy had not released software updates.