CVE-2005-0013 in ncpfs
Summary
by MITRE
nwclient.c in ncpfs before 2.2.6 does not drop root privileges before executing utilities using the netware client functions which allows local users to gain privileges.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/05/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-0013 resides within the ncpfs network filesystem client implementation prior to version 2.2.6. This issue specifically affects the nwclient.c component which handles NetWare client functions and demonstrates a critical privilege escalation flaw in the software's privilege management mechanisms. The vulnerability stems from the improper handling of root privileges during utility execution processes, creating a pathway for local attackers to exploit the system's security model.
The technical flaw manifests in the nwclient.c source file where the ncpfs client fails to properly drop root privileges before invoking external utilities or system commands. This design oversight means that when the client executes certain functions, it maintains elevated privileges throughout the process execution chain. The vulnerability operates under CWE-276, which classifies improper privilege management as a core weakness in software security architecture. Attackers can leverage this flaw by manipulating the client's execution flow to gain root-level access to the system, effectively bypassing normal user permission controls.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it fundamentally compromises the security boundary between normal user accounts and system-level administrative functions. Local users who can access the ncpfs client functionality can exploit this weakness to execute arbitrary commands with root privileges, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability affects systems running ncpfs versions earlier than 2.2.6, making it particularly concerning for legacy environments that have not received security updates. This flaw aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which describes privilege escalation through the exploitation of software vulnerabilities, and represents a classic example of how improper privilege handling can create persistent security weaknesses.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of the ncpfs client to version 2.2.6 or later, which includes proper privilege dropping mechanisms. System administrators should also implement additional security controls such as restricting access to the ncpfs client utilities and monitoring for suspicious privilege escalation attempts. The fix addresses the core issue by ensuring that root privileges are properly dropped before executing external utilities, thereby eliminating the attack vector. Organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify systems running affected ncpfs versions and prioritize remediation efforts accordingly. Regular security audits and privilege management reviews should be implemented to prevent similar issues from emerging in other software components, particularly those handling system-level operations and external command execution.