WinRAR [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8] [9] [10], a widely used Windows-only application for managing RAR archives [3], recently released version 6.23 to address a high-severity security flaw (CVE-2023-40477). This flaw allows hackers to access memory beyond the allocated buffer [10], potentially leading to code execution on the target system [10].
Description
To exploit this vulnerability [2] [4] [6] [7], a user must open a malicious RAR file [10], which can then execute commands on their PC or extract malicious contents. The severity rating of this flaw is 7.8 out of 10, reflecting its potential impact. The flaw was discovered by a security researcher and reported to WinRAR developers in June. It is worth noting that WinRAR does not offer automatic updates, so users must manually install the latest version to protect themselves. The update also addresses another bug that could cause WinRAR to start the wrong file from a specially crafted archive [9]. While there is currently no evidence of real-world exploitation [4], it is important to stay vigilant and take this vulnerability seriously. Users can also consider alternative software like 7-Zip to open .rar files. Additionally, it is worth mentioning that Windows 11 is developing native RAR support.
Conclusion
This security flaw in WinRAR poses a significant risk to users, as it allows hackers to execute code on their systems [10]. To mitigate this risk [5], users should promptly update to the latest version of WinRAR [5]. It is important to note that WinRAR does not offer automatic updates, so manual installation is necessary. Additionally, users may want to consider using alternative software like 7-Zip to open .rar files. While there is currently no evidence of real-world exploitation [4], it is crucial to remain vigilant and take this vulnerability seriously. Furthermore, the development of native RAR support in Windows 11 may provide a more secure option for managing RAR archives in the future.
References
[1] https://thehackernews.com/2023/08/new-winrar-vulnerability-could-allow.html
[2] https://www.tomshardware.com/news/winrar-flaw-let-hackers-run-programs-when-opening-rar-files-patch-issued
[3] https://www.techspot.com/news/99857-winrar-latest-release-fixes-dangerous-rce-security-vulnerability.html
[4] https://www.howtogeek.com/winrar-has-a-severe-security-flaw-update-your-pc-now/
[5] https://www.techworm.net/2023/08/winrar-remote-hackers-execute-arbitrary-code.html
[6] https://cybersecuritynews.com/winrar-flaw-attackers-remote-code/
[7] https://www.helpnetsecurity.com/2023/08/21/cve-2023-40477/
[8] https://securityonline.info/cve-2023-40477-winrar-code-execution-vulnerability/
[9] https://betanews.com/2023/08/19/update-winrar-right-now-to-patch-high-severity-security-flaw/
[10] https://www.tweaktown.com/news/92944/winrar-version-6-23-patches-up-very-serious-security-flaw-so-make-sure-you-update-now/index.html
