CVE-2022-24770 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-1236, affecting versions of the open-source machine learning framework 'gradio' prior to 2.8.11. Gradio is widely used for building interactive machine learning models and demos, often involving user input and output data handling. The vulnerability arises from improper neutralization of formula elements in CSV files generated by gradio's flagging functionality, which saves input/output data into CSV files on the developer's local machine. Specifically, if a malicious user inputs specially crafted text beginning with characters such as '=', '+', '-', or '@', these can be interpreted by spreadsheet applications like Microsoft Excel as formulas or commands. When such a CSV file is opened in Excel or similar spreadsheet software, the embedded formula elements can execute arbitrary commands or scripts on the user's computer, potentially leading to command execution attacks. This issue is a form of CSV Injection or Formula Injection. The vulnerability was addressed in gradio version 2.8.11 by escaping CSV entries with single quotes, preventing spreadsheet software from interpreting the input as executable formulas. Until the patch is applied, the recommended workaround is to avoid opening gradio-generated CSV files in Excel or similar programs that automatically evaluate formulas. There are no known exploits in the wild reported for this vulnerability, and no CVSS score has been assigned. The vulnerability requires no authentication and can be triggered by any user capable of submitting input that gets saved into the CSV file, making it relatively easy to exploit in environments where gradio is used for interactive demos or applications with untrusted user input.

For European organizations using gradio versions prior to 2.8.11, this vulnerability poses a risk primarily to the confidentiality and integrity of systems where CSV files generated by gradio are opened in vulnerable spreadsheet software. If malicious input is saved and then opened by a developer or analyst in Excel, arbitrary commands could execute, potentially leading to unauthorized code execution, data leakage, or further compromise of the host system. This is particularly concerning for organizations that use gradio for internal or external demos involving untrusted users or public-facing applications. The impact is limited to the local machine where the CSV file is opened, but could lead to broader compromise if the attacker leverages the initial execution to escalate privileges or move laterally. Availability impact is low as the vulnerability does not directly cause denial of service. However, the risk of malware execution or data manipulation could indirectly affect operational continuity. Since exploitation requires opening the malicious CSV file in a vulnerable spreadsheet application, user awareness and operational procedures are critical factors in mitigating impact. European organizations in sectors such as research, AI development, and software engineering, where gradio is more likely to be used, may face higher exposure.

1. Upgrade gradio to version 2.8.11 or later immediately to ensure the built-in CSV escaping mechanism is in place, neutralizing formula injection risks. 2. Implement strict input validation and sanitization on user inputs that are saved into CSV files, rejecting or escaping characters that can trigger formula execution ('=', '+', '-', '@'). 3. Educate developers and analysts to avoid opening CSV files generated by gradio in Microsoft Excel or similar spreadsheet applications until the patch is applied. Instead, use text editors or spreadsheet software that do not automatically evaluate formulas, such as LibreOffice Calc with formula evaluation disabled. 4. Establish organizational policies to scan and audit CSV files generated by gradio for suspicious formula elements before opening. 5. Employ endpoint protection solutions that can detect and block suspicious script or command execution triggered by spreadsheet applications. 6. For environments where gradio is exposed to untrusted users, consider isolating the flagging functionality or restricting access to CSV files to trusted personnel only. 7. Monitor for any unusual activity on developer machines that open gradio-generated CSV files, including unexpected command executions or process launches.