CVE-2007-6200 in rsync
Summary
by MITRE
Unspecified vulnerability in rsync before 3.0.0pre6, when running a writable rsync daemon, allows remote attackers to bypass exclude, exclude_from, and filter and read or write hidden files via (1) symlink, (2) partial-dir, (3) backup-dir, and unspecified (4) dest options.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/02/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-6200 represents a critical security flaw in rsync versions prior to 3.0.0pre6 that operates within writable rsync daemon configurations. This vulnerability stems from improper handling of file system operations when rsync processes various command line options, creating opportunities for remote attackers to circumvent access controls and gain unauthorized access to system resources. The flaw specifically affects scenarios where rsync operates as a daemon with write permissions, making it particularly dangerous in networked environments where rsync services are exposed to untrusted users.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits four distinct operational paths within rsync's file handling mechanisms. The first path involves symbolic link manipulation where attackers can traverse directory structures to access hidden files that should normally be excluded from synchronization operations. The second path utilizes partial directory handling, allowing attackers to access files that are typically protected during partial file transfers. The third path leverages backup directory configurations, enabling unauthorized access to backup files that should remain hidden or restricted. The fourth unspecified path involves destination option handling that creates additional vectors for bypassing exclusion rules. These paths collectively demonstrate a fundamental flaw in rsync's permission and access control validation mechanisms when processing file system operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, as it enables attackers to potentially read sensitive system files, modify critical configuration data, or even execute malicious code through carefully crafted file operations. Remote attackers can exploit these vulnerabilities without requiring authentication credentials, making them particularly dangerous in environments where rsync daemons are publicly accessible. The ability to bypass exclude, exclude_from, and filter rules means that attackers can circumvent security policies designed to protect system integrity, potentially accessing hidden system files, user data, or configuration information that should remain protected. This vulnerability directly impacts the principle of least privilege and can lead to complete system compromise when combined with other attack vectors.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily focus on immediate version upgrades to rsync 3.0.0pre6 or later releases where the underlying security flaws have been addressed. Organizations should implement strict access controls and authentication mechanisms for rsync daemons, ensuring that only authorized users can access write operations. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be configured to restrict access to rsync daemon ports to trusted networks only. Additionally, system administrators should regularly audit rsync configurations to ensure that exclude and filter rules are properly implemented and functioning as intended. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-284 (Improper Access Control) and can be categorized under ATT&CK technique T1078 (Valid Accounts) when attackers exploit legitimate access to bypass security controls. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be implemented to detect and remediate similar issues in other network services and applications.