CVE-2023-0341 is a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in the ec_glob function of the EditorConfig C Core library, specifically in versions before 0.12.6. EditorConfig is a widely used open-source tool that helps maintain consistent coding styles across different editors and IDEs by defining configuration files. The vulnerability arises from insufficient bounds checking on the p_pcre buffer during pattern matching operations within the ec_glob function. An attacker who can supply crafted input to this function can cause the program to write beyond the allocated stack buffer, leading to arbitrary memory corruption. This condition can be exploited to execute arbitrary code remotely, compromising the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected system. The vulnerability requires local access with low attack complexity and no privileges, but does require user interaction, such as opening or processing a malicious EditorConfig file. The fix implemented in version 0.12.6 involves adding strict bounds checking on all write operations to the p_pcre buffer, effectively preventing overflow. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, but the high CVSS score of 7.8 reflects the serious risk posed by this vulnerability. EditorConfig C Core is often integrated into development tools and CI/CD pipelines, making it a critical component in software development environments.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2023-0341 can be significant, especially those heavily reliant on open-source development tools and automated build systems that incorporate EditorConfig C Core. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data breaches, or disruption of software development workflows. This could compromise sensitive intellectual property, disrupt critical software delivery pipelines, and affect the integrity of deployed applications. Organizations in sectors such as finance, manufacturing, and technology, which have strong software development activities, may face operational and reputational damage. Additionally, the vulnerability could be leveraged as a foothold for further lateral movement within corporate networks. The requirement for user interaction limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate risk, particularly in environments where developers or automated systems process untrusted EditorConfig files.

To mitigate this vulnerability, European organizations should immediately upgrade EditorConfig C Core to version 0.12.6 or later, where the buffer overflow issue has been fixed. Conduct a thorough inventory of all development and CI/CD environments to identify instances of EditorConfig C Core usage, including indirect dependencies in build tools and IDE plugins. Implement strict input validation and sandboxing for any processes that parse EditorConfig files, especially those sourced from untrusted or external contributors. Educate developers and DevOps teams about the risks of processing untrusted configuration files and enforce policies to verify the integrity of such files before use. Regularly monitor security advisories for updates or emerging exploits related to EditorConfig and related tooling. Employ runtime protections such as stack canaries and address space layout randomization (ASLR) to reduce exploitation likelihood. Finally, integrate vulnerability scanning tools into the software supply chain to detect usage of vulnerable EditorConfig versions proactively.