CVE-2010-2445 in freeciv
Summary
by MITRE
freeciv 2.2 before 2.2.1 and 2.3 before 2.3.0 allows attackers to read arbitrary files or execute arbitrary commands via a scenario that contains Lua functionality, related to the (1) os, (2) io, (3) package, (4) dofile, (5) loadfile, (6) loadlib, (7) module, and (8) require modules or functions.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/23/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-2445 represents a critical security flaw in the FreeCiv civilization simulation game that affects versions prior to 2.2.1 and 2.3.0. This issue stems from the game's improper handling of Lua scripting functionality within scenario files, creating a dangerous attack vector that allows remote adversaries to exploit the system through maliciously crafted scenario packages. The vulnerability specifically targets the game's integration of Lua's standard library modules that provide system-level access capabilities, making it particularly dangerous for multiplayer environments where users might download and execute scenarios from untrusted sources.
The technical flaw manifests through the unsafe execution of Lua code within scenario files without proper sandboxing or input validation. Attackers can leverage the os, io, package, dofile, loadfile, loadlib, module, and require functions to gain unauthorized access to system resources. These Lua modules provide direct access to operating system functions including file system operations, process execution, and dynamic library loading. When the vulnerable FreeCiv game processes a malicious scenario file containing crafted Lua code, these functions execute with the privileges of the running game process, potentially allowing attackers to read arbitrary files from the system, execute commands, or even escalate privileges depending on the execution context. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-94, which describes "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" and represents a classic example of a sandbox escape vulnerability.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it enables full command execution capabilities that can compromise entire systems. In multiplayer gaming environments where scenario sharing is common, attackers can distribute malicious scenarios that appear legitimate but contain hidden payload code. When other users download and play these scenarios, their systems become compromised without their knowledge. The vulnerability affects not only the local system but can also potentially be exploited in networked game environments where scenario files are shared across different machines. This creates a significant risk for game servers, community platforms, and any infrastructure that hosts or distributes FreeCiv scenarios, as a single malicious scenario can affect multiple users simultaneously.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected FreeCiv versions to 2.2.1 or 2.3.0, which include proper sandboxing of Lua execution environments and restrictions on dangerous functions. System administrators should implement strict validation and sanitization of all scenario files before distribution, particularly in community environments where user-generated content is common. Network segmentation and access controls can help limit the potential damage if exploitation occurs, while regular security audits of game environments should be conducted to identify any unauthorized modifications. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks of downloading scenarios from untrusted sources, and game developers should implement comprehensive input validation and execution environment restrictions to prevent similar vulnerabilities in future releases. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059.007 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: Lua" and T1068 for "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation" when the vulnerability leads to elevated system access.