CVE-2011-4183 in Open Build Service
Summary
by MITRE
A vulnerability in open build service allows remote attackers to upload arbitrary RPM files. Affected releases are SUSE open build service prior to 2.1.16.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/27/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-4183 represents a critical security flaw within the SUSE Open Build Service platform that enables remote attackers to upload arbitrary RPM packages to the system. This vulnerability specifically affects versions of the open build service prior to 2.1.16, indicating that the issue was present in the software architecture and access control mechanisms that governed package submission processes. The flaw fundamentally compromises the integrity of the build environment by allowing unauthorized parties to introduce potentially malicious software packages into the system.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and access control measures within the Open Build Service's package upload functionality. When users attempt to submit RPM packages for inclusion in the build system, the platform fails to properly verify the authenticity, integrity, or legitimacy of the uploaded files. This weakness creates an avenue for attackers to bypass normal security controls and inject arbitrary code or malicious packages into the build environment. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-434, which describes insecure upload of code or files, where systems fail to properly validate or sanitize file uploads, particularly in contexts where the uploaded content can be executed or deployed.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-4183 extends beyond simple unauthorized access to encompass significant risks to the entire software supply chain integrity. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability could potentially introduce backdoors, malware, or other malicious components into the build environment, which would then be distributed to users of the software packages built through this system. This represents a supply chain security risk where the compromised build service becomes a vector for distributing malicious software to end users. The vulnerability particularly affects organizations relying on SUSE Open Build Service for creating and distributing software packages, as it undermines the trust model that these systems are designed to maintain.
The implications of this vulnerability align with several ATT&CK framework techniques including T1195.002 (Supply Chain Compromise - Compromise Software Dependencies and Development Tools) and T1059.001 (Command and Scripting Interpreter - PowerShell). The compromised build environment could serve as a staging ground for further attacks, where attackers might upload additional malicious packages or establish persistent access points within the software distribution infrastructure. Organizations using affected versions of the Open Build Service would face potential exposure to compromised software releases that could affect numerous downstream users and systems. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date security controls in development and build environments, as these systems often serve as trusted entry points for software distribution.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-4183 focus primarily on upgrading to the patched version 2.1.16 or later, which includes proper input validation and access control measures. Organizations should also implement additional security controls such as code signing verification, automated malware scanning of uploaded packages, and network segmentation to limit the impact of potential compromise. Regular security assessments of build environments and implementation of principle of least privilege access controls can help prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in other components of the software development lifecycle. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical need for robust security controls in development infrastructure, particularly in systems that handle software package creation and distribution.