CVE-2006-7151 in libtool-ltdl
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in the libtool-ltdl library (libltdl.so) 1.5.22-2.3 in Fedora Core 5 might allow local users to execute arbitrary code via a malicious library in the (1) hwcap, (2) 0, and (3) nosegneg subdirectories.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/26/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-7151 represents a critical untrusted search path issue within the libtool-ltdl library component of Fedora Core 5 systems. This flaw exists in the libltdl.so library version 1.5.22-2.3 and specifically affects how the library handles dynamic library loading operations. The vulnerability stems from improper path resolution mechanisms that fail to validate or sanitize the search paths used when loading shared libraries, creating opportunities for privilege escalation and arbitrary code execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the library's behavior when processing library files located in specific subdirectories including hwcap, 0, and nosegneg. These directories are part of the standard library search paths that libtool-ltdl uses during runtime operations. When a malicious library file is placed in any of these locations, the system's dynamic linker will load it without proper validation, effectively allowing local attackers to inject malicious code into processes that utilize libtool-ltdl. This represents a classic case of insecure library loading practices where the system trusts the existence and integrity of libraries found in predictable locations without proper verification mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it provides local users with a means to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the target process. Attackers can leverage this weakness by placing malicious shared libraries in the affected subdirectories, which will then be loaded by any application or service that depends on libtool-ltdl. This creates a persistent threat vector that can be exploited across multiple applications and services within the system, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the system level and does not require network access or specific user interaction to exploit.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-427 Uncontrolled Search Path Elements, which specifically addresses the risk of attackers manipulating search paths to load malicious code. The flaw also maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 Command and Scripting Interpreter: Unix Shell, as exploitation may involve shell-based attacks and privilege escalation. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper library loading security practices and highlights the need for implementing secure coding guidelines that prevent untrusted path resolution. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including patching the libtool-ltdl library to version 1.5.24 or later, restricting write access to the affected subdirectories, and conducting comprehensive system audits to identify any malicious files that may have been placed in these locations. Additionally, system administrators should consider implementing monitoring solutions to detect unauthorized modifications to critical library directories and establish proper access controls to prevent local privilege escalation attacks.