CVE-2010-1326 in CVSNT
Summary
by MITRE
perms.cpp in March Hare Software CVSNT 2.0.58, 2.5.01, 2.5.02, 2.5.03 before build 3736, 2.5.04 before build 2862; CVS Suite 2.5.03, 2008 before build 3736, and 2009 before 3729 allows remote attackers to bypass the permissions check, modify arbitrary modules and directories within CVSROOT, and execute arbitrary code via a crafted branch name ACL, possibly related to incorrect inheritance.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/24/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-1326 represents a critical access control flaw within March Hare Software CVSNT and CVS Suite versions ranging from 2.0.58 through 2.5.04, specifically affecting builds prior to the mentioned patch levels. This issue resides in the perms.cpp component which governs permission handling within the Concurrent Versions System implementation. The flaw enables remote attackers to circumvent the intended security controls that should restrict access to CVSROOT directories and modules, fundamentally undermining the integrity and confidentiality of version control systems relying on these software components.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of Access Control List (ACL) inheritance mechanisms when processing branch names within the CVS system. When users create or modify branches with specific naming conventions, the software fails to properly validate whether the requested permissions should be inherited from parent directories or if they should be treated as independent access controls. This incorrect inheritance behavior allows malicious actors to craft branch names that bypass the normal permission checking procedures, effectively granting them elevated privileges within the version control environment. The flaw operates at the core of the permission evaluation system, making it particularly dangerous as it affects the fundamental security model of the software.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple unauthorized access, as it provides attackers with the capability to modify arbitrary modules and directories within the CVSROOT repository structure. This includes the potential to alter critical configuration files, inject malicious code into version-controlled projects, or completely compromise the integrity of the version control system. The ability to execute arbitrary code through this vector means that attackers can potentially establish persistent backdoors, escalate privileges within the system, or use the compromised version control server as a launch point for further attacks against the broader network infrastructure. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers do not require local system access or physical presence, making the vulnerability particularly attractive to threat actors seeking to compromise enterprise version control systems.
Organizations utilizing affected versions of CVSNT or CVS Suite should immediately implement mitigations including patching to the latest available builds that address this specific inheritance flaw. System administrators should also consider implementing additional monitoring of CVSROOT directory modifications and access patterns that could indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-284 Access Control Issues, specifically targeting improper access control mechanisms within version control systems, and represents a potential ATT&CK technique under T1078 Valid Accounts and T1566 Phishing with Malicious Attachments where attackers might leverage compromised version control systems as part of broader attack campaigns. Network segmentation and access control lists should be reviewed to limit exposure of vulnerable CVS systems, while regular security audits of version control environments should be conducted to identify and remediate similar access control weaknesses.