CVE-2003-0065 in uxterm
Summary
by MITRE
The uxterm terminal emulator allows attackers to modify the window title via a certain character escape sequence and then insert it back to the command line in the user s terminal, e.g. when the user views a file containing the malicious sequence, which could allow the attacker to execute arbitrary commands.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/13/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2003-0065 resides within the uxterm terminal emulator, a component of the X Window System that provides a terminal interface for users. This security flaw represents a sophisticated form of command injection that exploits the terminal's handling of escape sequences and its subsequent rendering of window titles. The vulnerability operates through a carefully crafted character escape sequence that can be embedded within terminal output, creating a vector for malicious code execution through seemingly benign user interactions.
The technical mechanism behind this vulnerability involves the uxterm emulator's improper validation of escape sequences when processing window title modifications. When an attacker crafts a specific escape sequence that modifies the terminal window title, this sequence can be subsequently processed and reinserted back into the command line context. This occurs when users view files containing the malicious escape sequence, causing the terminal to execute the embedded commands. The flaw demonstrates a classic case of improper input sanitization where escape sequences are not properly filtered or escaped before being rendered back to the user interface.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates a significant attack surface that can be exploited through various vectors including file viewing, log analysis, or any terminal interaction that displays content containing malicious escape sequences. The impact extends beyond simple command execution to potentially enable full system compromise when combined with other attack techniques. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be concealed within normal-looking files, making detection difficult and exploitation largely transparent to end users. This characteristic aligns with attack patterns documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1059.007 technique for command and scripting interpreter, specifically targeting terminal emulators and shell environments.
The vulnerability classification places it under CWE-74, which describes "Improper Neutralization of Special Elements in Output Used by a Downstream Component" and also relates to CWE-20, "Improper Input Validation." These classifications highlight the fundamental weakness in the terminal emulator's processing of user-supplied data and the lack of proper sanitization mechanisms. The security implications extend to privilege escalation scenarios where attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute commands with the privileges of the terminal user, potentially leading to complete system compromise. Organizations using uxterm or similar terminal emulators should consider implementing immediate mitigations including disabling window title modifications, updating to patched versions, or implementing additional input validation measures.
The broader implications of this vulnerability demonstrate how terminal emulators can serve as attack vectors for sophisticated exploitation techniques. The vulnerability's persistence across different file formats and viewing contexts makes it particularly challenging to defend against, as it can be embedded in various types of content including text files, log files, or even network traffic displays. Security practitioners should implement layered defenses including terminal session monitoring, escape sequence filtering, and user education about the risks of viewing untrusted content in terminal environments. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of maintaining up-to-date terminal software and implementing comprehensive input validation across all terminal components to prevent similar issues from arising in other terminal emulators and shell environments.