CVE-2011-3378 in RPM
Summary
by MITRE
RPM 4.4.x through 4.9.x, probably before 4.9.1.2, allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (memory corruption) and possibly execute arbitrary code via an rpm package with crafted headers and offsets that are not properly handled when a package is queried or installed, related to (1) the regionSwab function, (2) the headerLoad function, and (3) multiple functions in rpmio/rpmpgp.c.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/28/2021
The vulnerability described in CVE-2011-3378 represents a critical security flaw in the RPM package management system affecting versions 4.4.x through 4.9.x, with potential impact extending to versions prior to 4.9.1.2. This vulnerability stems from improper handling of crafted rpm package headers and offsets during package query or installation operations, creating a pathway for remote attackers to exploit memory corruption issues that could escalate to arbitrary code execution. The flaw specifically manifests in three distinct code locations within the RPM codebase, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered through multiple attack vectors.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves three primary functions that fail to properly validate input data from rpm package headers. The regionSwab function, which handles byte order swapping operations, demonstrates inadequate boundary checking when processing malformed header data. The headerLoad function, responsible for parsing package metadata, exhibits similar weaknesses in its handling of crafted offsets that lead to memory corruption. Additionally, multiple functions within rpmio/rpmpgp.c show insufficient input validation when processing cryptographic signatures and other package metadata elements. These functions collectively create a pathway where attacker-controlled data can overwrite memory locations and potentially execute malicious code, as evidenced by the memory corruption patterns typically associated with buffer overflow conditions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as it can enable remote code execution on systems running affected RPM versions. Attackers can craft malicious rpm packages that, when processed by the vulnerable system, trigger memory corruption leading to arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the package manager process. This creates a significant risk for systems where package management is performed by untrusted parties, such as in enterprise environments or public package repositories. The vulnerability affects systems where rpm is used for package installation, querying, or verification operations, making it particularly dangerous in automated deployment scenarios or systems that regularly process external package sources.
The attack surface for this vulnerability is substantial given that rpm is a fundamental component of numerous Linux distributions and package management systems. Systems that rely on rpm for package installation, updates, or verification operations are at risk, particularly those that process packages from untrusted sources or perform automatic package management operations. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal privileges and can be accomplished through the simple act of installing or querying a maliciously crafted rpm package, making it particularly dangerous in environments where package management operations are automated or performed by users with elevated privileges.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate upgrading to RPM versions 4.9.1.2 or later, where the memory handling issues have been addressed through proper input validation and boundary checking. System administrators should implement strict package verification procedures, including signature verification and source validation, before installing packages from untrusted sources. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of systems to potentially malicious package repositories. Additionally, monitoring systems should be configured to detect unusual package management activity or attempted installations of suspicious packages. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and may be categorized under ATT&CK technique T1059 for execution through command and scripting interpreter, as exploitation could involve executing arbitrary code through compromised package management operations.