CVE-2024-29073 is a vulnerability identified in Ankitects Anki version 24.04 related to the handling of LaTeX input sanitization. Anki allows users to create flashcards that can include LaTeX code for rendering mathematical and scientific notation. To prevent unsafe commands, Anki sanitizes LaTeX input; however, it overlooked the verbatim package, which is installed by default in many LaTeX distributions. The verbatim package allows raw text to be included without processing, which can be abused to read arbitrary files on the victim's system. An attacker can craft a malicious flashcard embedding LaTeX code that leverages this oversight to perform an arbitrary file read when the flashcard is opened. This can lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information stored on the user's device. The attack vector is remote and network-based, requiring no privileges or authentication but does require the victim to open the malicious flashcard, thus involving user interaction. The vulnerability affects confidentiality but does not impact integrity or availability of the system. The CVSS 3.1 score is 5.3 (medium), reflecting the moderate complexity and user interaction requirement. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the vulnerability poses a risk especially in environments where Anki is widely used for study or research purposes. No patches or fixes are currently linked, so mitigation relies on user awareness and restricting untrusted flashcard imports.

For European organizations, particularly educational institutions, research centers, and individual users relying on Anki 24.04 for study and knowledge management, this vulnerability poses a confidentiality risk. An attacker could gain unauthorized access to sensitive files on a user's device by tricking them into opening a malicious flashcard. This could lead to leakage of personal data, intellectual property, or other confidential information. Since Anki is popular among students and academics, the impact could be significant in universities and research labs. The vulnerability does not affect system integrity or availability, so it is less likely to cause operational disruption but could facilitate further targeted attacks if sensitive data is exposed. The requirement for user interaction limits mass exploitation but targeted spear-phishing or social engineering campaigns could be effective. Organizations with BYOD policies or remote learning setups may face higher exposure. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but vigilance is necessary.

1. Educate users to avoid opening flashcards from untrusted or unknown sources, especially those containing LaTeX content. 2. Temporarily disable or restrict LaTeX rendering in Anki if possible until a patch is released. 3. Monitor Anki community and official channels for updates or patches addressing this vulnerability. 4. Employ endpoint security solutions that can detect suspicious file reads or anomalous application behavior. 5. Use sandboxing or isolated environments for opening untrusted flashcards to limit potential damage. 6. Encourage users to verify the source and integrity of shared flashcards before importing. 7. Consider network-level controls to block or flag suspicious file sharing related to Anki flashcards. 8. Maintain regular backups of sensitive data to mitigate potential data exposure consequences. 9. For organizations, implement policies restricting installation or use of vulnerable Anki versions until fixed. 10. Engage with Ankitects for timely patch releases and apply updates promptly once available.