CVE-2004-2133 in CVSup
Summary
by MITRE
Certain third-party packages for CVSup 16.1h, such as SuSE Linux, contain untrusted paths in the ELF RPATH fields of certain executables, which could allow local users to execute arbitrary code by causing cvsup to link against malicious libraries that are created in world-writable directories such as /usr/src/packages.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/17/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2004-2133 represents a classic case of insecure library loading practices that has significant implications for system security. This issue affects CVSup version 16.1h and specifically targets third-party distributions such as those found in SuSE Linux environments. The core problem lies in how the software handles dynamic library linking through the RPATH mechanism, which is a critical component of ELF (Executable and Linkable Format) binary execution on Unix-like systems. When executables are compiled with RPATH values that include untrusted or world-writable directories, they create opportunities for privilege escalation attacks that can be exploited by local malicious actors.
The technical flaw manifests through the improper handling of library search paths within the ELF binary structure. In this case, the CVSup tool contains RPATH fields that reference directories which are world-writable, meaning any user on the system can create or modify files within these locations. When cvsup executes and attempts to load required libraries, it will search through the specified RPATH directories in order, potentially loading malicious versions of shared libraries that have been placed in these world-writable locations. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-426, which describes the insecure loading of dynamic libraries, and represents a specific instance of how uncontrolled RPATH values can be exploited. The attack vector requires local access to the system, as the malicious library must be placed in a world-writable directory, but the impact can be severe when successful.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass potential complete system compromise. Since cvsup is typically used for updating system software and source code repositories, an attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could gain elevated privileges to modify system files, install backdoors, or otherwise compromise the integrity of the affected system. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it leverages legitimate system functionality while exploiting a configuration weakness that many administrators might not immediately recognize. The use of world-writable directories such as /usr/src/packages as attack vectors demonstrates how seemingly innocuous system configurations can create security holes when combined with improper library loading practices. This type of vulnerability is classified under the MITRE ATT&CK framework as part of the privilege escalation category, specifically targeting techniques that involve dynamic link library (DLL) hijacking or library injection.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on eliminating the insecure RPATH configurations in affected packages and implementing proper security controls around world-writable directories. System administrators should ensure that all executables are compiled with secure RPATH values that do not include world-writable locations, and that the use of RPATH is minimized in favor of standard library search paths. The recommended approach involves rebuilding affected packages with proper linking flags that either eliminate RPATH entirely or ensure that all RPATH values point to trusted directories. Additionally, regular auditing of system directories for world-writable permissions should be implemented as part of standard security practices. Organizations should also consider implementing automated tools to scan for similar vulnerabilities across their software inventory, as this type of issue can occur in other applications that improperly handle dynamic library loading. The vulnerability underscores the importance of secure coding practices and proper binary hardening techniques that are fundamental to modern cybersecurity defense strategies.