CVE-2010-2199 in RPM
Summary
by MITRE
lib/fsm.c in RPM 4.8.0 and earlier does not properly reset the metadata of an executable file during replacement of the file in an RPM package upgrade or deletion of the file in an RPM package removal, which might allow local users to bypass intended access restrictions by creating a hard link to a vulnerable file that has a POSIX ACL, a related issue to CVE-2010-2059.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/14/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-2199 resides within the RPM package management system's file state machine implementation, specifically in the lib/fsm.c component of RPM versions 4.8.0 and earlier. This flaw represents a critical security issue that affects the proper handling of file metadata during package upgrade and removal operations. The vulnerability stems from the improper reset of executable file metadata when RPM performs file replacement operations, creating a persistent security risk that can be exploited by local attackers.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in how RPM manages file state transitions during package operations. When an RPM package is upgraded or removed, the system should properly reset all metadata associated with executable files to ensure that security attributes are correctly maintained. However, the flawed implementation in lib/fsm.c fails to properly clear or reset the metadata of executable files that are being replaced or deleted. This oversight allows the system to retain old security attributes, particularly POSIX Access Control Lists, which can persist across file operations and create unexpected access permissions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant for system security and integrity. Local users can exploit this weakness by creating hard links to vulnerable files that possess POSIX ACLs, effectively bypassing intended access restrictions. This creates a persistent backdoor mechanism where attackers can maintain elevated privileges or access restricted resources even after package upgrades or removals. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the package management level, where the system's security policies are enforced, making it difficult to detect and remediate. The issue is closely related to CVE-2010-2059, indicating a broader pattern of metadata handling flaws within the RPM system that affect file access control mechanisms.
This vulnerability directly relates to CWE-284, which addresses improper access control in software systems, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which involves exploiting local privilege escalation opportunities. The flaw enables attackers to manipulate file permissions and access controls through legitimate package management operations, creating a sophisticated attack vector that can bypass standard security controls. Organizations using affected RPM versions face potential compromise of their package management security infrastructure, as the vulnerability allows persistent access to files that should be protected by proper access control mechanisms.
The recommended mitigation strategy involves immediate upgrade to RPM versions 4.8.1 or later, which contain the necessary patches to properly reset file metadata during package operations. System administrators should also implement comprehensive monitoring of package management activities and file access patterns to detect potential exploitation attempts. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing file integrity monitoring solutions that can detect unauthorized changes to file metadata and access control lists. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper metadata management in package management systems and underscores the need for thorough testing of security-related operations during software updates and maintenance cycles.