CVE-2011-2964 in foomatic
Summary
by MITRE
foomaticrip.c in foomatic-rip in foomatic-filters in Foomatic 4.0.6 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted *FoomaticRIPCommandLine field in a .ppd file, a different vulnerability than CVE-2011-2697.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/15/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-2964 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the foomatic-rip component of the foomatic-filters package version 4.0.6. This issue resides in the foomaticrip.c file and specifically targets the processing of PostScript Printer Description files that contain maliciously crafted *FoomaticRIPCommandLine fields. The vulnerability operates at the intersection of printer driver processing and command execution, creating a pathway for remote attackers to inject and execute arbitrary code on systems running affected versions of the foomatic-filters software. The flaw demonstrates a classic buffer overflow or command injection vulnerability that leverages the trust placed in printer configuration files during the print processing pipeline.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the foomatic-rip processing logic. When a printer driver processes a .ppd file containing a specially crafted *FoomaticRIPCommandLine field, the system fails to properly validate or escape the command line arguments before executing them. This allows attackers to inject malicious commands that get executed with the privileges of the printing service process, typically running with elevated permissions. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be triggered through legitimate print job processing workflows, making it difficult to detect and prevent without proper input validation mechanisms in place. This flaw aligns with CWE-78, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands, and represents a command injection vulnerability that enables arbitrary code execution.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-2964 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass potential system compromise and privilege escalation within networked printing environments. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to print servers, potentially using them as entry points for broader network infiltration. The vulnerability affects systems where foomatic-filters is installed and actively processing print jobs, making it particularly concerning in enterprise environments with centralized print management systems. Once exploited, attackers could establish persistent access through the compromised print server, potentially using it as a pivot point for attacking other networked systems. The attack vector requires minimal user interaction since the vulnerability is triggered during normal print job processing, making it particularly stealthy and difficult to defend against without proper patching and network segmentation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security posture improvements. The primary and most effective mitigation involves updating to patched versions of foomatic-filters that properly validate and sanitize input from .ppd files before executing any commands. Organizations should implement network segmentation to isolate print servers from critical network segments and deploy network monitoring solutions to detect unusual command execution patterns. Additionally, implementing strict file validation policies that prevent untrusted .ppd files from being processed by print servers can significantly reduce the attack surface. The vulnerability's characteristics align with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, specifically focusing on the execution of malicious commands through legitimate system interfaces. Security teams should also consider implementing principle of least privilege for print server processes and regularly audit print job processing workflows to identify potential injection points. Regular security assessments of printer infrastructure and comprehensive patch management programs are essential for maintaining protection against similar vulnerabilities in the broader printing ecosystem.