CVE-2004-1471 in FreeBSD
Summary
by MITRE
Format string vulnerability in wrapper.c in CVS 1.12.x through 1.12.8, and 1.11.x through 1.11.16 allows remote attackers with CVSROOT commit access to cause a denial of service (application crash) and possibly execute arbitrary code via format string specifiers in a wrapper line.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/05/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-1471 represents a critical format string flaw within the Concurrent Versions System (CVS) version control software. This weakness exists in the wrapper.c component of CVS versions 1.12.x through 1.12.8 and 1.11.x through 1.11.16, creating a significant security risk for systems utilizing these older versions. The flaw specifically manifests when processing wrapper lines that contain format string specifiers, allowing malicious actors with commit access to the CVSROOT directory to exploit this vulnerability.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of user-supplied input within the wrapper.c module. When CVS processes wrapper lines containing format string specifiers, the application fails to properly sanitize or validate these inputs before using them in printf-like functions. This creates an environment where attackers can inject malicious format specifiers that manipulate the program's execution flow. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-134, which specifically addresses the use of format strings without proper validation or sanitization, making it a prime example of insecure coding practices that have been well-documented in security literature for decades.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service conditions, though that represents the most immediate risk. While attackers can indeed cause application crashes and system instability, the more severe consequence involves potential code execution capabilities. When exploited with sufficient privileges, this format string vulnerability can enable remote code execution, allowing attackers to run arbitrary commands on the affected system. This capability transforms a simple denial of service into a full compromise of the version control infrastructure, potentially exposing sensitive source code, development secrets, and other confidential information. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in environments where CVSROOT commit access is granted to multiple users, as it lowers the barrier to exploitation.
The attack vector for CVE-2004-1471 requires an attacker to possess commit access to the CVSROOT directory, which represents a significant privilege level within the CVS architecture. This access typically allows users to modify repository contents and potentially inject malicious wrapper configurations. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which describes the use of command and scripting interpreters, particularly when attackers leverage format string vulnerabilities to execute arbitrary code. Organizations should note that this vulnerability operates under the broader category of software supply chain attacks, where compromising version control systems can have cascading effects across entire development ecosystems. The remediation strategy must include immediate patching of affected CVS installations, implementation of access controls to limit CVSROOT commit privileges, and consideration of alternative version control systems that have better security track records.
The exploitation of this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input validation and secure coding practices in distributed systems. Modern secure development practices, including the use of static analysis tools and code review processes, could have prevented this vulnerability from reaching production environments. Organizations should implement comprehensive vulnerability management programs that include regular security assessments of critical infrastructure components. The vulnerability also highlights the need for proper privilege separation and least-privilege principles in version control systems, ensuring that commit access is granted only to trusted individuals who require such privileges for legitimate development activities. This particular flaw serves as a reminder of how legacy software systems can contain fundamental security weaknesses that persist for years, requiring continuous vigilance and proactive security measures to protect against exploitation.