T08 · Insecure Dependencies
- Location
SKILL.md:47- Finding
Unpinned Runtime Dependency Installation
- Content
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Vulnerability Details
File Location:
SKILL.md:47
Vulnerability Type: Unpinned third-party dependency
Risk Level: MediumVulnerable Code:
bash pip install openaiTechnical Analysis
The setup instructions install the latest available
openaipackage without a version constraint, lock file, or cryptographic hash verification. Consequently, the dependency resolved when a user installs the Skill may differ from the version that was reviewed.Although no malicious dependency is currently demonstrated, this mutable installation process creates a supply-chain exposure. A compromised package release, package-index account, or unexpectedly unsafe future version could introduce arbitrary code that runs during installation or when the scripts import
OpenAI.Attack Path
- An attacker compromises the upstream package distribution process or publishes a malicious release through a compromised maintainer account.
- A user follows the documented
pip install openaiinstruction after that release becomes the latest version. - The package manager downloads and installs the altered package without validating a reviewed version or expected hash.
- Malicious package code executes during installation or when
scripts/test_connection.pyorscripts/list_models.pyimports the package. - The code operates with the privileges of the user running the installation or script.
Impact Assessment
Successful exploitation could provide arbitrary code execution with the invoking user's privileges. Depending on that user's access, the malicious dependency could read environment variables such as
AI_STUDIO_API_KEY, access user-readable files, make network requests, alter local files, or consume API quota. The scope is limited by the privileges and isolation controls applied to the Python environment.- Remediation
View remediation
Remediation Suggestions
- Pin
openaito a specifically reviewed version rather than installing the mutable latest release. - Maintain dependencies in a lock file generated through a controlled review process.
- Require verified package hashes during installation, such as with
pip install --require-hashes -r requirements.txt. - Review and deliberately update the pinned version on a defined schedule.
- Install dependencies inside an isolated virtual environment or container with minimal filesystem and credential access.
- Use a trusted package index and monitor dependency advisories and package ownership changes.
- Pin
