Severity: Critical / High (CVSS 3.1 8.8)
Product: muffon — a cross-platform desktop music streaming client
Affected Versions: All versions prior to 2.3.0
Patched Version: 2.3.0 and later
CWE: CWE-94 Improper Control of Code Generation (‘Code Injection’)
Vulnerability Overview
Attacker can achieve Remote Code Execution (RCE) with minimal interaction:
- Muffon registers a custom URL scheme (
muffon://). - If a user visits a malicious webpage or clicks a crafted
muffon://link, the browser invokes Muffon’s URL handler. - The application processes the URL without sanitizing/validating input, leading to arbitrary code execution on the victim’s machine under the user’s privilege level.
This qualifies as a “one-click RCE” because the exploit only requires visiting a malicious link, and no additional authentication or complex steps are necessary.
Typical Exploit Scenario
- Attacker crafts malicious
muffon://link with embedded commands or payload. - Victim is tricked into visiting a site or clicking the link.
- Browsers launch Muffon with the payload.
- The application executes the payload due to unsafe URL handling.
Successful exploitation can lead to:
- Full compromise of the user session or system.
- Arbitrary code execution (installing malware, data theft, persistence).
- Execution with the privileges of the logged-in user (can be admin).
Because this vector involves a URL handler, typical vectors include phishing, malicious advertising, or compromised websites.
Mitigation & Remediation
- Update Immediately:
Upgrade Muffon to version 2.3.0 or newer — this version contains the fix that properly sanitizes and validates custom URL handler input. - User Awareness:
Educate users to avoid clicking untrusted or unfamiliar links, especially those using uncommon URL schemes. - Network/Endpoint Controls:
- If possible, block or monitor
muffon://URL handling. - Use endpoint protection/EDR tools to detect anomalous process launches triggered by custom URL handlers.
- If possible, block or monitor
- Web Filtering / Safe Browsing:
Block access to known malicious domains and phishing vectors that might serve maliciousmuffon://links.
