CVE-2001-1002 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE
The default configuration of the DVI print filter (dvips) in Red Hat Linux 7.0 and earlier does not run dvips in secure mode when dvips is executed by lpd, which could allow remote attackers to gain privileges by printing a DVI file that contains malicious commands.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/30/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2001-1002 resides within the DVI print filter implementation in Red Hat Linux 7.0 and earlier versions, specifically affecting the dvips component that processes DVI (Device Independent) files for printing operations. This security flaw manifests in the default configuration where dvips fails to execute in secure mode when invoked by the line printer daemon lpd, creating a critical privilege escalation vector. The issue stems from inadequate sandboxing and security controls within the print processing pipeline, allowing malicious command execution through specially crafted DVI files.
The technical implementation flaw occurs at the system integration level where the print daemon lpd executes dvips without proper security context isolation. When a user submits a DVI file for printing, the system processes this through dvips which, in its default insecure configuration, does not properly sanitize or restrict command execution within the printing context. This represents a classic privilege escalation vulnerability where unprivileged users can leverage the print subsystem to execute arbitrary commands with elevated privileges. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-276, which addresses improper privileges, and specifically demonstrates insecure default configurations that can be exploited by remote attackers without authentication.
Operationally, this vulnerability presents a significant risk to systems running affected Red Hat Linux versions as it allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the target system with the privileges of the print daemon process. The impact extends beyond simple command execution to potential full system compromise, as attackers can leverage this privilege escalation to gain root access or execute malicious payloads. The attack vector requires no special privileges and can be executed through normal print submission processes, making it particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where printing services are commonly available. This vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers privilege escalation through the use of vulnerable system services.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2001-1002 include immediate patching of the affected Red Hat Linux systems to ensure dvips runs in secure mode when executed by lpd. System administrators should configure the print daemon to properly isolate and restrict dvips execution, implementing proper sandboxing controls and privilege separation. Additionally, the default configuration should be reviewed and modified to enforce secure execution modes, and access controls should be implemented to restrict who can submit print jobs that might contain malicious content. Network segmentation and monitoring of print services can help detect suspicious print job submissions. Organizations should also consider implementing mandatory access controls and privilege separation between the print subsystem and other system components to prevent lateral movement and privilege escalation. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of secure default configurations and proper privilege management in system services, particularly those that interact with user-submitted content.