CVE-2005-0078 in kde
Summary
by MITRE
the kde screen saver in kde before 3.0.5 does not properly check the return value from a certain function call which allows attackers with physical access to cause a crash and access the desktop session.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/06/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2005-0078 affects the KDE desktop environment's screen saver component in versions prior to 3.0.5. This represents a classic software flaw where proper error handling mechanisms are absent, creating a condition that can be exploited by malicious actors who have physical access to a target system. The issue stems from inadequate validation of function return values within the screen saver implementation, which creates a potential denial of service scenario that extends beyond simple system disruption to include unauthorized access to active desktop sessions.
The technical flaw manifests when the screen saver component fails to properly verify the outcome of specific function calls during its operation. This missing validation allows attackers with physical proximity to the machine to trigger a crash condition that effectively terminates the screen saver process while potentially leaving the desktop session in an accessible state. The vulnerability operates at the system level where screen saver functionality interfaces with the desktop environment's session management, creating a pathway for unauthorized access that bypasses normal authentication mechanisms. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of improper error handling as classified by CWE-754, which specifically addresses situations where software does not properly check return values from system calls or function invocations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple system instability to create a security risk that can be exploited in physical access scenarios. Attackers who gain proximity to a target system can leverage this flaw to cause the screen saver to crash, potentially leading to unauthorized access to active desktop sessions without proper authentication. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in environments where physical security controls are weak or where unauthorized individuals may have access to systems in close proximity. This represents a privilege escalation vector that allows attackers to bypass normal session management protocols and gain access to running desktop environments, potentially exposing sensitive data and system resources that would normally be protected by proper authentication mechanisms.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability focus on upgrading to KDE version 3.0.5 or later where the proper error handling has been implemented. System administrators should prioritize patching affected systems and implementing physical security controls to limit unauthorized access to computing devices. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing additional security measures such as automatic screen locking after periods of inactivity and ensuring that desktop environments properly validate all system call return values. The vulnerability highlights the importance of robust error handling in security-critical components and demonstrates how seemingly minor implementation flaws can create significant security risks. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability relates to privilege escalation and defense evasion techniques where attackers can manipulate system components to gain unauthorized access to desktop sessions, emphasizing the need for comprehensive security testing that includes validation of error handling mechanisms in all system components.