CVE-2023-6507

6.1 MEDIUM 1% exploit odds Fix listed

What it is

An issue was found in CPython 3.12.0 `subprocess` module on POSIX platforms. The issue was fixed in CPython 3.12.1 and does not affect other stable releases. When using the `extra_groups=` parameter with an empty list as a value (ie `extra_groups=[]`) the logic regressed to not call `setgroups(0, NULL)` before calling `exec()`, thus not dropping the original processes' groups before starting the new process. There is no issue when the parameter isn't used or when any value is used besides an empty list. This issue only impacts CPython processes run with sufficient privilege to make the `setgroups` system call (typically `root`).

At a glance

Exploitability: Can be exploited from the same network segment with an admin-level account. High risk of data exposure, data tampering.
Exploit odds: 1.3% chance of exploitation in the next 30 days (EPSS).
Fix: A patch, advisory or fixed version is referenced. Upgrade or apply it.

Timeline

2023-12-08 19:15 UTC PublishedDisclosed publicly on CVE.org and NVD
2026-07-31 15:16 UTC Last updatedMost recent change to the record

Why it ranks here

Exploited in the wild: no, CISA does not list it.
Exploit odds: 1.3% in the next 30 days (EPSS).
Severity: 6.1 MEDIUM (CVSS).
Fix: a patch or advisory is linked.

Details

Published: 2023-12-08 19:15 UTC
Last modified: 2026-07-31 15:16 UTC
Exploit probability: 1.3% · EPSS, next 30 days
Weakness: CWE-269 · Improper privilege management
Record status: Modified

Affected

Python 3.12.0
Python 3.13.0

Attack profile CVSS 3.1 · 6.1

Attack vector: Adjacent network
Complexity: Low
Privileges needed: High
User interaction: None
Scope: Unchanged
Confidentiality: High
Integrity: High
Availability: None

Raw vector

CVSS:3.1/AV:A/AC:L/PR:H/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:N

Is it in your code?

Hand this to your coding agent. It searches your project for the affected products and checks versions. Nothing leaves your machine.

Read https://cve-list.com/agent/cve/CVE-2023-6507.md and follow it. Check whether this project is affected by CVE-2023-6507. Read only. Don't change anything and don't upload my code. Tell me yes, no or not sure, with the file as proof.

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Fix and advisories

References

NVD record · CVE.org record