Overview
CVE-2025-64185 identifies a security vulnerability in Open OnDemand, an open-source HPC (High-Performance Computing) portal. Versions prior to 4.0.8 and 3.1.16 inadvertently create world-writable locations within the GEM_PATH. This can lead to potential security risks, as malicious actors could exploit this weakness to inject malicious code into the system. Open OnDemand versions 4.0.8 and 3.1.16 contain the fix for this vulnerability.
Technical Details
The vulnerability stems from the way Open OnDemand handles the GEM_PATH environment variable during package installation or configuration. By creating world-writable directories in the GEM_PATH, any user on the system can potentially install Ruby gems. A malicious gem could then be loaded and executed by Open OnDemand or its components, potentially compromising the system’s integrity.
Specifically, the issue arises because the default permissions for newly created directories in the GEM_PATH are not restrictive enough. This allows any user to write to these directories, effectively bypassing intended security measures.
CVSS Analysis
Currently, a CVSS score has not been assigned to CVE-2025-64185 (N/A). The severity is also listed as N/A. However, it is important to understand the potential impact of this vulnerability and take appropriate mitigation steps.
A future CVSS score will likely depend on factors such as the ease of exploitation, the scope of impact, and the privileges required to exploit the vulnerability.
Possible Impact
The potential impact of this vulnerability includes:
- Arbitrary Code Execution: A malicious user could install a compromised Ruby gem, leading to arbitrary code execution within the context of the Open OnDemand application.
- Privilege Escalation: Depending on the context in which the malicious code is executed, an attacker could potentially escalate their privileges on the system.
- Data Breach: If the compromised code gains access to sensitive data, it could lead to a data breach.
- System Compromise: In a worst-case scenario, successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise.
- Denial of Service: A malicious gem could cause the application to crash or become unavailable, leading to a denial-of-service condition.
Mitigation or Patch Steps
The recommended mitigation steps are as follows:
- Upgrade Open OnDemand: Upgrade to version 4.0.8 or 3.1.16, or later. These versions contain the necessary patches to address the vulnerability.
- Verify Permissions: After upgrading, verify the permissions of the directories in the
GEM_PATHto ensure they are not world-writable. Use commands likels -ldto check permissions. - Monitor System: Continuously monitor the system for suspicious activity, such as unexpected gem installations or unusual process behavior.
