CVE-2001-0923 in RPM Package Manager
Summary
by MITRE
RPM Package Manager 4.0.x through 4.0.2.x allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code via corrupted data in the RPM file when the file is queried.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/14/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2001-0923 represents a critical security flaw in the RPM Package Manager version 4.0.x through 4.0.2.x that enables remote code execution through manipulation of RPM file data. This vulnerability exists within the package management system that was widely adopted across linux distributions for software installation, updating, and removal operations. The flaw specifically occurs during the querying phase of RPM file processing when the system encounters corrupted data within the package structure, creating a potential attack vector for malicious actors seeking to compromise systems running affected RPM versions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the RPM package parsing mechanism. When an RPM file is queried, the system processes various metadata components including headers, file lists, and dependency information without adequate verification of data integrity. Attackers can craft malicious RPM packages containing corrupted data structures that, when processed by the vulnerable RPM manager, trigger unexpected execution paths within the parsing code. This weakness allows for arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the user running the RPM query command, potentially leading to complete system compromise depending on the execution context and user permissions.
The operational impact of CVE-2001-0923 extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass broader system compromise and potential denial of service conditions. Since RPM package managers are fundamental components of linux systems, exploitation of this vulnerability could allow attackers to execute malicious code on target systems, install backdoors, modify system files, or establish persistent access. The vulnerability affects not only individual user accounts but also system integrity, as RPM queries are commonly used during system administration tasks, software updates, and package verification processes. This makes the attack surface particularly broad and the potential for widespread impact significant.
Security practitioners should implement immediate mitigations including updating to RPM versions 4.0.3 or later where this vulnerability has been patched, as well as implementing network-level controls to prevent the execution of untrusted RPM packages. System administrators should also conduct thorough audits of existing RPM packages to identify potentially compromised files and establish monitoring procedures for unusual RPM query activities. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-129 Input Validation and Output Encoding, specifically addressing improper validation of input data during parsing operations, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter for executing malicious code through compromised package management systems. Organizations should also consider implementing package signing verification mechanisms and maintaining strict software supply chain security controls to prevent unauthorized package modifications that could exploit similar vulnerabilities.