CVE-2026-54916

8.8

netbox-community · devicetype-library

An uncontrolled search path vulnerability in the NetBox Device Type Library allows unauthenticated contributors to achieve remote code execution on GitHub Actions runners via malicious module shadowing.

Executive summary

A critical vulnerability in the NetBox Device Type Library allows unauthenticated attackers to execute arbitrary code on CI/CD runners, potentially leading to full compromise of the workflow environment.

Vulnerability

The flaw stems from improper pytest configuration, specifically the absence of an init.py file and the lack of explicit import mode settings, which causes the tests directory to be prepended to the system path. An unauthenticated contributor can inject malicious modules that shadow legitimate dependencies, leading to arbitrary code execution during the automated testing process.

Business impact

This vulnerability carries a CVSS score of 8.8, indicating a high level of risk to the integrity and confidentiality of the development pipeline. Successful exploitation allows an attacker to manipulate test results, exfiltrate sensitive tokens or credentials stored within the CI/CD environment, and gain unauthorized access to internal network resources connected to the runner.

Remediation

Immediate Action: Update the project to include the fix introduced in commit b0d9a3dadd0a0a9d3c93b0b2777559fd4bad1037 or ensure the repository is using a version that incorporates this change.

Proactive Monitoring: Review GitHub Actions workflow logs for unexpected execution patterns or unauthorized modifications to repository files that could indicate attempts to exploit the test directory.

Compensating Controls: Restrict the permissions of GitHub Actions tokens to the minimum required scope and implement branch protection rules to scrutinize pull requests from untrusted contributors.

Exploitation status

Public Exploit Available: Unknown

Analyst recommendation

Given the potential for remote code execution within the development environment, organizations utilizing the NetBox Device Type Library must prioritize this update. Ensure that all CI/CD configurations are audited to prevent similar path-shadowing vulnerabilities and verify that the fix is applied across all active branches.

History

  1. Disclosed CVE record published
  2. Collected by CVE Brief via github
  3. Analyst report written
  4. Published in the daily brief high section

Sources