CVE-2008-5987 in eog
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in the Python interface in Eye of GNOME (eog) 2.22.3, and possibly other versions, allows local users to execute arbitrary code via a Trojan horse Python file in the current working directory, related to a vulnerability in the PySys_SetArgv function (CVE-2008-5983).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/01/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2008-5987 represents a critical untrusted search path issue within the Eye of GNOME (eog) image viewer application at version 2.22.3 and potentially other iterations. This flaw specifically impacts the Python interface component of eog, creating a dangerous condition where malicious actors can leverage the application's handling of Python modules to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of the Python interpreter's argument processing, particularly through the PySys_SetArgv function which is referenced in CVE-2008-5983, establishing a clear chain of dependency between these related security flaws.
The technical exploitation mechanism relies on the local user's ability to place a specially crafted Trojan horse Python file within the current working directory from which eog is executed. When the application processes this directory, it inadvertently loads and executes the malicious Python code, bypassing normal security boundaries and privilege controls. This occurs because the application does not properly validate or sanitize the Python module search paths, allowing arbitrary code execution through the Python interpreter's dynamic loading mechanisms. The vulnerability manifests when eog attempts to load Python extensions or plugins, creating an environment where attacker-controlled code can be executed with the privileges of the user running the application.
Operationally, this vulnerability presents a significant risk to system security as it allows local privilege escalation through code injection attacks. The impact extends beyond simple code execution to potentially enable further exploitation, including privilege escalation, data theft, or system compromise. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain persistent access to systems, particularly in environments where users may inadvertently execute the vulnerable application. The local nature of the attack means that any user with access to the system can potentially exploit this flaw, making it particularly dangerous in multi-user environments or shared computing systems where privilege separation is crucial for maintaining security boundaries.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching of affected versions of Eye of GNOME, as well as implementing proper privilege separation and sandboxing techniques for applications that dynamically load Python modules. System administrators should consider restricting the Python module search paths and implementing strict file permission controls to prevent unauthorized code injection. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-427 Uncontrolled Search Path Element and CWE-74 Improper Neutralization of Special Elements in Output Used by a Downstream Component, demonstrating the intersection of path manipulation and output handling flaws. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1548 Abuse of Functionality, as it enables adversaries to execute arbitrary code through legitimate interpreter functions. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies and monitoring for suspicious Python module loading activities to detect potential exploitation attempts.