CVE-2012-0060 in RPM Package Manager
Summary
by MITRE
RPM before 4.9.1.3 does not properly validate region tags, which allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (crash) and possibly execute arbitrary code via an invalid region tag in a package header to the (1) headerLoad, (2) rpmReadSignature, or (3) headerVerify function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/22/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-0060 represents a critical flaw in the RPM package management system that affects versions prior to 4.9.1.3. This issue stems from inadequate validation of region tags within package headers, creating a pathway for remote attackers to exploit the system through malformed data structures. The vulnerability specifically targets three core functions within the RPM library: headerLoad, rpmReadSignature, and headerVerify, each of which processes package metadata in different contexts. The flaw manifests when an attacker crafts a package header containing invalid region tags that bypass normal validation checks, allowing malicious input to traverse the parsing pipeline unimpeded.
The technical mechanism behind this vulnerability operates through buffer overflows and memory corruption issues that occur during header parsing operations. When the RPM library encounters malformed region tags, the parsing functions fail to properly validate the structure and boundaries of these tags before processing them. This lack of validation creates opportunities for attackers to manipulate memory layouts and execute arbitrary code on systems running vulnerable RPM versions. The vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of stack-based buffer overflow, though it can also manifest as heap-based issues depending on the specific parsing context and memory allocation patterns. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it requires no local privileges or authentication, making it a remote code execution threat that can be exploited over network connections.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as it can lead to complete system compromise and arbitrary code execution. Systems running vulnerable RPM versions are at risk of being exploited by attackers who can craft malicious packages designed to trigger the buffer overflow conditions. This creates a significant threat landscape where attackers can potentially gain root privileges or escalate their access level within compromised systems. The vulnerability affects not only individual machines but also entire package distribution networks where RPM packages are regularly exchanged, making it a critical concern for system administrators and security teams managing large-scale deployments. Organizations that rely on RPM-based package management systems for software distribution face substantial risk if they have not updated to patched versions.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-0060 require immediate implementation of version updates to RPM 4.9.1.3 or later, which contain proper validation mechanisms for region tags in package headers. System administrators should conduct comprehensive inventory checks to identify all systems running vulnerable RPM versions and prioritize patching operations accordingly. Additional protective measures include implementing package signature verification mechanisms, network segmentation to limit package distribution sources, and monitoring for suspicious package installation activities. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1195.002 for exploitation of remote services and T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter execution, highlighting the multi-faceted nature of potential attack scenarios. Organizations should also consider implementing automated patch management solutions and regular security assessments to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited in the future, as this flaw represents a classic example of insufficient input validation in security-critical software components.