CVE-2012-1419 in ClamAV
Summary
by MITRE
The TAR file parser in ClamAV 0.96.4 and Quick Heal (aka Cat QuickHeal) 11.00 allows remote attackers to bypass malware detection via a POSIX TAR file with an initial [aliases] character sequence. NOTE: this may later be SPLIT into multiple CVEs if additional information is published showing that the error occurred independently in different TAR parser implementations.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/10/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-1419 represents a significant flaw in the TAR file parsing functionality of security software applications including ClamAV version 0.96.4 and Quick Heal (Cat QuickHeal) version 11.00. This issue demonstrates how seemingly innocuous file format parsing can be exploited to circumvent critical security controls designed to detect and prevent malware infections. The vulnerability specifically targets the way these security applications handle POSIX TAR archive files, which are commonly used for packaging and distributing software components across various operating systems.
The technical flaw occurs when the affected software encounters a TAR file that begins with an [aliases] character sequence, which is a valid POSIX TAR format element used for defining symbolic links and file aliases. The parser in these applications fails to properly validate or reject such files, allowing them to be processed without proper security checks. This parsing error creates a bypass condition where malicious content can be hidden within legitimate-looking TAR archives, effectively evading the detection mechanisms that would normally identify and quarantine such threats. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and insufficient sanitization of archive file headers, which are critical components in the file extraction and analysis process.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is substantial as it directly undermines the core functionality of anti-malware solutions. Attackers can leverage this weakness to deliver malicious payloads disguised as legitimate TAR archives, potentially bypassing network security controls, endpoint protection systems, and email filtering mechanisms. This creates a significant risk for organizations relying on these security applications for malware detection, as the vulnerability allows attackers to circumvent protection measures without requiring additional exploit primitives or advanced attack techniques. The bypass capability extends beyond simple file execution, potentially enabling more sophisticated attack vectors including privilege escalation and persistence mechanisms.
Security professionals should implement immediate mitigations including updating to patched versions of ClamAV and Quick Heal software, implementing additional file validation layers, and deploying network-based detection systems that can identify suspicious TAR file patterns. Organizations should also consider implementing sandboxing techniques for suspicious archive files, as well as establishing monitoring procedures to detect anomalous file extraction behaviors. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-20, which addresses "Improper Input Validation," and represents a classic example of how improper handling of valid input formats can create security weaknesses. From an ATT&CK perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving evasion and execution, specifically leveraging file format manipulation to avoid detection and maintain persistence within target environments.