An ipython security update has been released for Debian GNU/Linux 9 LTS to address a potential arbitrary code execution vulnerability.

DLA 2896-1: ipython security update

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Debian LTS Advisory DLA-2896-1 debian-lts@lists.debian.org
  https://www.debian.org/lts/security/ Chris Lamb
January 24, 2022   https://wiki.debian.org/LTS
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Package : ipython
Version : 5.1.0-3+deb9u1
CVE ID : CVE-2022-21699
Debian Bug : #1004122

It was discovered that there was a potential arbitrary code execution
vulnerability in IPython, the interactive Python shell.

This issue stemmed from IPython executing untrusted files in the
current working directory. According to upstream:

Almost all versions of IPython looks for configuration and profiles
in current working directory. Since IPython was developed before
pip and environments existed, it was used a convenient way to load
code/packages in a project dependant way.

In 2022, it is not necessary anymore, and can lead to confusing
behavior where for example cloning a repository and starting
IPython or loading a notebook from any Jupyter-Compatible interface
that has ipython set as a kernel can lead to code execution.

To address this problem, the current working directory is no longer
searched for profiles or configuration files.

For Debian 9 "Stretch", this problem has been fixed in version
5.1.0-3+deb9u1.

We recommend that you upgrade your ipython packages.

For the detailed security status of ipython please refer to
its security tracker page at:
  https://security-tracker.debian.org/tracker/ipython

Further information about Debian LTS security advisories, how to apply
these updates to your system and frequently asked questions can be
found at:   https://wiki.debian.org/LTS