Code Injection - Ruby Scanner
Identifies Ruby code injection through eval and system calls.
What is Code Injection - Ruby?
Ruby Code Injection occurs when untrusted user input is passed to Ruby's code evaluation functions like eval(), instance_eval(), class_eval(), or system/exec commands. The vulnerability can also occur through YAML deserialization with YAML.load() or ERB template processing.
Why is This Important?
Ruby on Rails is one of the most popular web frameworks, and Ruby powers many web applications and DevOps tools. Code injection can lead to complete server compromise, data theft, and can affect CI/CD pipelines where Ruby tools are commonly used.
How It Works
1. Input Discovery
Maps all user input points including forms, headers, cookies, and API parameters for injection testing.
2. Injection Testing
Executes sophisticated injection payloads designed to bypass filters and WAFs while detecting vulnerabilities.
3. Exploitation Validation
Confirms vulnerabilities through safe exploitation, providing proof-of-concept and impact assessment.
Key Capabilities
Advanced injection detection engine combining signature-based and AI-powered analysis for comprehensive coverage.
- Multi-vector injection testing across all input types
- WAF and filter bypass techniques built-in
- Database-specific payload optimization
- Out-of-band detection for blind vulnerabilities
- Automated proof-of-concept generation
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes YAML.load() dangerous in Ruby?
YAML.load() in Ruby can instantiate arbitrary objects through YAML tags. Attackers craft malicious YAML that creates ERB templates or other objects that execute code upon instantiation. YAML.safe_load() was introduced to prevent this but must be explicitly used.
How do eval variants differ in Ruby?
eval() executes code in the current context, instance_eval() in an object's context, class_eval() in a class context. All are dangerous with user input. send() and public_send() can also be exploited to call arbitrary methods.
Is Ruby deserialization safer than Python pickle?
Ruby's Marshal is similar to pickle in that it can execute code during deserialization. YAML.load() is actually more dangerous than many realize due to object instantiation. Both require using safe alternatives (YAML.safe_load(), JSON) for untrusted data.
How do I prevent Ruby code injection?
Never use eval() with user input, use YAML.safe_load() instead of YAML.load(), avoid Marshal for untrusted data, sanitize ERB template inputs, use parameterized system commands, and audit gems for deserialization vulnerabilities.
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