Platform
ruby
Component
dragonfly
Fixed in
0.8.6
CVE-2013-1756 is a Remote Code Execution (RCE) vulnerability discovered in the Dragonfly gem, a Ruby library commonly used with Ruby on Rails. This flaw allows a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code on a vulnerable system by crafting malicious requests. The vulnerability affects versions of Dragonfly up to and including 0.8.5, and also versions 0.9.x prior to 0.9.13. A fix is available in version 0.8.6.
Successful exploitation of CVE-2013-1756 grants an attacker complete control over the affected server. They can execute arbitrary commands, potentially leading to data breaches, system compromise, and further lateral movement within the network. The impact is particularly severe in environments where Dragonfly is used to process user-uploaded files, as an attacker could inject malicious code directly into these files. This could lead to persistent backdoors or the execution of arbitrary code during file processing. Given the widespread use of Ruby on Rails, this vulnerability has a broad potential impact.
CVE-2013-1756 was publicly disclosed in 2017. While no active exploitation campaigns have been definitively linked to this specific CVE, the nature of RCE vulnerabilities makes them attractive targets for attackers. Public proof-of-concept exploits are available, demonstrating the feasibility of exploitation. This CVE was not added to the CISA KEV catalog.
Exploit Status
EPSS
1.98% (84% percentile)
The primary mitigation for CVE-2013-1756 is to upgrade the Dragonfly gem to version 0.8.6 or later. If upgrading is not immediately feasible due to compatibility issues or breaking changes, consider implementing stricter input validation and sanitization on all user-uploaded files processed by Dragonfly. Web application firewalls (WAFs) configured to detect and block malicious requests targeting Dragonfly endpoints can also provide a temporary layer of protection. Review and audit Dragonfly configurations to ensure they adhere to security best practices, such as restricting file types and limiting access privileges.
No official patch available. Check for workarounds or monitor for updates.
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CVE-2013-1756 is a Remote Code Execution vulnerability affecting versions of the Dragonfly Ruby gem up to 0.8.5 and 0.9.x before 0.9.13, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code via crafted requests.
You are affected if your Ruby on Rails application uses Dragonfly versions ≤0.8.5 or 0.9.x before 0.9.13. Check your Gemfile and bundle list to determine your Dragonfly version.
Upgrade the Dragonfly gem to version 0.8.6 or later. If immediate upgrade is not possible, implement stricter input validation and consider WAF rules.
While no confirmed active campaigns are publicly known, the RCE nature of the vulnerability makes it a potential target. Public PoCs exist.
Refer to the Ruby Security Advisory for details: https://rubysec.com/archives/3342
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