CVE-2012-2092 in Cobbler
Summary
by MITRE
A Security Bypass vulnerability exists in Ubuntu Cobbler before 2,2,2 in the cobbler-ubuntu-import script due to an error when verifying the GPG signature.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/07/2024
The CVE-2012-2092 vulnerability represents a critical security bypass issue within Ubuntu Cobbler version 2.2.1 and earlier, specifically affecting the cobbler-ubuntu-import script. This flaw stems from inadequate GPG signature verification mechanisms that allow malicious actors to bypass authentication checks during software package imports. The vulnerability resides in the cryptographic verification process that should ensure package integrity and authenticity before installation. When the cobbler-ubuntu-import script processes package imports, it fails to properly validate GPG signatures, creating an exploitable condition where unsigned or tampered packages can be accepted as legitimate. The security implications extend beyond simple package management, as this bypass could enable attackers to inject malicious code into the system through compromised package repositories. This vulnerability directly violates security principles outlined in the Common Weakness Enumeration framework under CWE-310, specifically addressing cryptographic weakness and improper validation of security tokens.
The technical implementation of this flaw occurs within the cobbler-ubuntu-import script where the GPG signature verification process is either incomplete or incorrectly implemented. Attackers can exploit this by crafting malicious packages with forged GPG signatures or by manipulating the verification logic itself. The vulnerability's operational impact is significant as it undermines the entire package management security model of the Cobbler system, potentially allowing remote code execution or privilege escalation. The flaw essentially creates a backdoor mechanism where unauthenticated packages can be imported without proper cryptographic verification, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where automated package deployment is common. According to the MITRE ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.001 (Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell) and T1548.002 (Abuse Elevation Control Mechanism: Bypass User Account Control) through the exploitation of package management systems as attack vectors. The weakness creates a persistent threat vector that can be leveraged across multiple attack phases, from initial compromise to lateral movement within the network infrastructure.
Organizations utilizing Ubuntu Cobbler systems before version 2.2.2 face substantial risk from this vulnerability, as it enables attackers to compromise package integrity and potentially gain unauthorized access to systems. The remediation strategy involves upgrading to Cobbler version 2.2.2 or later where the GPG signature verification has been properly implemented and validated. System administrators should also implement additional monitoring mechanisms to detect unauthorized package imports and verify the integrity of all software components. Security hardening measures should include regular vulnerability assessments and ensuring that all package management systems maintain proper cryptographic verification processes. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and cryptographic implementation in automated deployment systems, as outlined in security best practices from NIST SP 800-53 and ISO 27001 standards. Organizations must also consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit the potential impact of such vulnerabilities, particularly in environments where automated package deployment is critical for system maintenance and updates.