CVE-2003-0068 in Eterm
Summary
by MITRE
The Eterm terminal emulator 0.9.1 and earlier 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 • 05/01/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2003-0068 represents a critical security flaw in the Eterm terminal emulator version 0.9.1 and earlier, demonstrating a sophisticated form of command injection through terminal escape sequences. This vulnerability operates by exploiting the terminal's handling of escape sequences, specifically those used to modify window titles, creating a pathway for attackers to execute arbitrary commands within the user's terminal environment. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization of escape sequences, allowing malicious actors to craft sequences that manipulate terminal behavior in unexpected ways.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the manipulation of terminal escape sequences, particularly those related to window title modification. When a user opens a file containing a malicious escape sequence, the terminal emulator processes the sequence and incorporates it into the command line, creating a command injection vector. This process violates standard security principles by failing to properly sanitize or validate escape sequences before processing them, allowing attackers to bypass normal terminal security mechanisms. The vulnerability specifically targets the way Eterm handles character escape sequences, where legitimate title modification commands can be repurposed to execute arbitrary code.
The operational impact of CVE-2003-0068 extends beyond simple command execution, as it represents a form of terminal-based attack that can be particularly insidious due to its ability to operate within the trusted terminal environment. Attackers can craft malicious files or web content containing the escape sequences, which when viewed by unsuspecting users, execute commands with the privileges of the affected user. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-74, which describes improper neutralization of special elements in output used by a downstream component, and specifically relates to CWE-94, which covers inadequate control of generation of code. The attack vector demonstrates how terminal emulators can become attack surfaces for privilege escalation and command execution.
The exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to significant security consequences including unauthorized code execution, privilege escalation, and potential system compromise. Users who regularly view files or web content containing malicious escape sequences are at risk, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where users frequently access untrusted content. The attack pattern follows principles outlined in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1059, which describes execution through command and scripting interpreters, and T1068, which covers privilege escalation through local exploitation. Organizations using Eterm terminal emulator in production environments should consider this vulnerability as a critical risk requiring immediate remediation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2003-0068 should focus on updating to patched versions of Eterm, as the vulnerability was resolved in later releases through improved input sanitization and escape sequence handling. Administrators should implement terminal security policies that restrict the execution of potentially malicious content and consider using alternative terminal emulators with stronger security controls. Additionally, user education regarding the risks of viewing untrusted files and content can help reduce the attack surface. The vulnerability serves as an example of why terminal emulators must implement robust input validation and why security-conscious development practices are essential for preventing such sophisticated injection attacks.