CVE-2022-39202: matrix-org matrix-appservice-irc Improper Privilege Management

Vulnerability summary

CVE-2022-39202 is a medium (CVSS 6.3) Improper Privilege Management vulnerability in matrix-org matrix-appservice-irc. EPSS estimates a 0.88% chance of exploitation in the next 30 days, higher than 58.3% of scored vulnerabilities.

Timeline

1. 13-09-2022
   PublishedVulnerability first disclosed.
2. 23-04-2025
   Last modifiedVulnerability information updated.

Description

matrix-appservice-irc is an open source Node.js IRC bridge for Matrix. The Internet Relay Chat (IRC) protocol allows you to specify multiple modes in a single mode command. Due to a bug in the underlying matrix-org/node-irc library, affected versions of matrix-appservice-irc perform parsing of such modes incorrectly, potentially resulting in the wrong user being given permissions. Mode commands can only be executed by privileged users, so this can only be abused if an operator is tricked into running the command on behalf of an attacker. The vulnerability has been patched in matrix-appservice-irc 0.35.0. As a workaround users should refrain from entering mode commands suggested by untrusted users. Avoid using multiple modes in a single command.

• CWE-269Improper Privilege ManagementThe product does not properly assign, modify, track, or check privileges for an actor, creating an unintended sphere of control for that actor.