CVE-2000-0693 in Raptor GFX PGX32
Summary
by MITRE
pgxconfig in the Raptor GFX configuration tool uses a relative path name for a system call to the "cp" program, which allows local users to execute arbitrary commands by modifying their path to point to an alternate "cp" program.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/18/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2000-0693 resides within the pgxconfig component of the Raptor GFX configuration tool, representing a classic path manipulation flaw that enables privilege escalation through command injection. This issue demonstrates how seemingly innocuous configuration utilities can harbor critical security weaknesses when they fail to properly validate or sanitize system call parameters. The vulnerability specifically exploits the use of relative paths in system calls, creating an attack surface where local users can manipulate the execution environment to achieve unauthorized command execution.
The technical implementation of this flaw occurs when pgxconfig invokes the "cp" program without specifying an absolute path, relying instead on the system's PATH environment variable resolution. When a local user modifies their PATH variable to include a directory containing a maliciously crafted "cp" binary, the system call executes the attacker-controlled program instead of the legitimate system utility. This path hijacking technique directly violates security principles of least privilege and proper input validation, as the application fails to enforce secure execution contexts for system commands.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability represents a significant local privilege escalation vector that allows attackers to execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the user running pgxconfig. The attack requires only local system access and path manipulation capabilities, making it particularly dangerous in environments where multiple users share system resources. The vulnerability's exploitation can lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or persistent backdoor installation, depending on the privileges of the targeted user account.
The security implications of this vulnerability align with CWE-78, which categorizes improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands, and relates to ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter. The flaw demonstrates how configuration tools often lack proper security hardening measures and fail to implement secure coding practices such as absolute path specification for system calls. Organizations should implement mandatory access controls and privilege separation measures to prevent such attacks, while also ensuring that all system calls within configuration utilities use absolute paths to eliminate potential path manipulation opportunities.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate remediation through patching the affected software, implementing proper PATH sanitization within the application, and enforcing absolute path usage for all system calls. System administrators should also conduct comprehensive audits of configuration tools and utilities to identify similar path manipulation vulnerabilities. Additionally, deploying security monitoring solutions that detect unusual PATH modifications and unauthorized command executions can provide early warning capabilities. The vulnerability underscores the importance of secure coding practices and proper privilege management in system utilities, particularly those with elevated access requirements.