CVE-2006-5327 in OpenBase
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in OpenBase SQL 10.0 and earlier, as used in Apple Xcode 2.2 2.2 and earlier and possibly other products, allows local users to execute arbitrary code via a modified PATH that references a malicious gzip program, which is executed by gnutar with certain TAR_OPTIONS environment variable settings, when gnutar is invoked by OpenBase.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/24/2026
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-5327 represents a classic untrusted search path issue that demonstrates how seemingly benign software components can create significant security risks when combined with improper environment variable handling. This flaw exists within OpenBase SQL version 10.0 and earlier implementations, which were integrated into Apple Xcode 2.2 and earlier versions, creating a widespread attack surface across multiple development environments. The vulnerability specifically exploits the interaction between gnutar and the TAR_OPTIONS environment variable, where the tar utility fails to properly validate the execution context of its underlying gzip decompression process.
The technical exploitation occurs through a carefully crafted modification of the system PATH environment variable that places a malicious gzip binary ahead of the legitimate system gzip utility in the search order. When OpenBase invokes gnutar to process compressed archive files, and gnutar subsequently uses the TAR_OPTIONS environment variable to execute gzip for decompression, the system resolves to execute the attacker-controlled gzip binary instead of the legitimate system utility. This creates a privilege escalation path where local users can execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the process invoking gnutar, typically the OpenBase application or the user running the development environment.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it demonstrates how insecure coding practices in third-party components can compromise entire development ecosystems. The attack vector requires local system access but provides a mechanism for privilege escalation that could be leveraged by malicious users with limited access to gain higher privileges. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-427, which specifically addresses uncontrolled search path dependencies, and represents a common pattern in software supply chain attacks where trusted components become attack vectors through improper environment handling.
The exploitation process relies on the fundamental principle that environment variables can be manipulated by local users to influence program behavior, particularly when applications invoke external utilities without proper path validation. The TAR_OPTIONS environment variable serves as a critical control point where attackers can inject additional commands or parameters that influence how gnutar processes archives. This vulnerability also connects to ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which covers execution through scripting languages, as the malicious gzip binary can execute arbitrary commands through the decompression process. The issue is particularly concerning in development environments where users may have elevated privileges or where the OpenBase application runs with elevated permissions.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability focus on proper environment variable handling and secure coding practices that prevent untrusted search paths from being utilized. System administrators should ensure that PATH variables are properly configured to prevent malicious binaries from being executed, and applications should validate the execution context of external utilities they invoke. The recommended approach includes setting restrictive permissions on system binaries, implementing proper input validation for environment variables, and using absolute paths for critical system utilities. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing privilege separation mechanisms where applications run with minimal required privileges, and regular security audits should be performed to identify similar untrusted search path vulnerabilities in software components. The vulnerability underscores the importance of secure coding practices and proper environment variable handling as fundamental security controls in preventing local privilege escalation attacks.