CVE-2005-1528 in neutrino
Summary
by MITRE
untrusted search path vulnerability in the crttrap command in qnx neutrino rtos 6.2.1 allows local users to load arbitrary libraries via a ld_library_path environment variable that references a malicious library.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/02/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-1528 represents a critical untrusted search path weakness within the crttrap command of the QNX Neutrino RTOS version 6.2.1. This flaw resides in the operating system's handling of dynamic library loading mechanisms and specifically affects the crttrap utility which is designed to trap and handle certain runtime conditions within the real-time operating environment. The issue stems from improper validation of library search paths during the execution of system commands, creating an avenue for privilege escalation through malicious library injection.
This vulnerability operates through the exploitation of the ld_library_path environment variable which is commonly used by Unix-like systems to specify directories where shared libraries should be loaded. When the crttrap command executes with elevated privileges, it inherits the environment variables from the calling process including ld_library_path. If an attacker can manipulate this variable to point to a directory containing a maliciously crafted shared library, the system will load and execute the attacker-controlled code instead of the legitimate system library. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it allows local users to escalate their privileges to the level of the crttrap command, which typically runs with elevated permissions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution as it provides a foundation for more sophisticated attacks within the QNX Neutrino RTOS environment. Since QNX Neutrino is commonly deployed in embedded systems and real-time applications where security is paramount, this vulnerability could be exploited to compromise critical infrastructure. The attack vector requires local access but does not need network connectivity, making it particularly concerning for systems where physical access is possible. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-427 Uncontrolled Search Path Element, which specifically addresses the risk of loading unintended libraries due to insecure search path configurations.
The exploitation of this vulnerability demonstrates characteristics consistent with attack patterns found in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the technique T1548.001 Abuse Elevation Control Mechanism. Attackers can leverage this weakness to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability affects the integrity and availability of the operating system by allowing unauthorized code execution that can modify system behavior or disable security controls. Given that QNX Neutrino is used in automotive systems, industrial control systems, and other safety-critical applications, the potential consequences of exploitation extend beyond traditional computing environments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-1528 should focus on implementing secure coding practices and system hardening measures. The most effective immediate solution involves modifying the crttrap command to explicitly set or sanitize the LD_LIBRARY_PATH environment variable before executing any library loading operations. System administrators should also implement proper privilege separation and ensure that system utilities do not inherit potentially dangerous environment variables from untrusted sources. The implementation of secure library loading practices including the use of absolute paths for library references and the enforcement of strict library search path policies would significantly reduce the attack surface. Additionally, regular security updates and patches should be applied to ensure that known vulnerabilities in the QNX Neutrino RTOS are addressed. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of secure environment variable handling and proper privilege management in real-time operating systems where reliability and security are critical requirements.