CVE-2004-2687 in Xcode
Summary
by MITRE
distcc 2.x, as used in XCode 1.5 and others, when not configured to restrict access to the server port, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via compilation jobs, which are executed by the server without authorization checks.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/20/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2004-2687 represents a critical security flaw in the distcc distributed compilation system version 2.x, which was widely adopted in development environments including Apple's XCode 1.5. This vulnerability stems from the improper configuration of the distcc server daemon, specifically when it operates without adequate access restrictions on its listening port. The flaw allows unauthorized remote attackers to submit compilation jobs that are then executed by the distcc server without any form of authentication or authorization verification, creating a significant attack surface for malicious actors.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the distcc daemon's failure to validate the identity of clients attempting to submit compilation tasks. When distcc operates in its default configuration, it listens on a network port and accepts compilation requests from any client that can reach the server. This design flaw means that any remote attacker with network access to the distcc server can submit malicious compilation commands that will be executed with the privileges of the distcc service account. The vulnerability is classified as a command injection flaw that operates at the application layer, specifically affecting the build and compilation processes that are fundamental to software development workflows.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple remote code execution, as it provides attackers with the capability to perform arbitrary system commands on the affected server. This could enable attackers to install backdoors, modify system files, escalate privileges, or even compromise the entire development infrastructure. The implications are particularly severe in development environments where distcc servers may have elevated privileges or access to sensitive source code repositories. Attackers could potentially leverage this vulnerability to gain access to proprietary code, modify build processes, or use the compromised system as a launch point for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability directly maps to CWE-78, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-2687 require immediate configuration changes to restrict access to the distcc server port. Administrators should implement network-level access controls using firewalls to limit which hosts can connect to the distcc service, ensuring that only trusted development machines can submit compilation jobs. The distcc daemon should be configured with proper authentication mechanisms and access controls, with the server port restricted to localhost access when possible. Additionally, system administrators should consider implementing network segmentation to isolate development environments from general network access, and regularly audit distcc configurations to ensure that access restrictions remain properly enforced. The vulnerability underscores the critical importance of principle of least privilege in development tool configurations and demonstrates how seemingly benign development utilities can become significant security risks when improperly configured.