CVE-2013-1764 in PackageKit
Summary
by MITRE
The Zypper (aka zypp) backend in PackageKit before 0.8.8 allows local users to downgrade packages via the "install updates" method.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/11/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-1764 resides within the Zypper backend implementation of PackageKit, a critical component in Linux package management systems. This flaw affects versions of PackageKit prior to 0.8.8 and represents a significant security issue that undermines the integrity of package installation processes. The vulnerability specifically manifests when the "install updates" method is invoked, creating an opportunity for local attackers to manipulate package versions through unauthorized downgrades.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient validation within the PackageKit framework's interaction with Zypper. When users initiate package update operations through PackageKit's interface, the system should maintain strict version control to prevent unauthorized package modifications. However, the flaw allows malicious local users to exploit the update mechanism to install older versions of packages, effectively bypassing the intended upgrade process. This downgrade capability represents a direct violation of package management integrity principles and creates potential attack vectors for privilege escalation and system compromise.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents substantial risks to system security and integrity. Local users who can exploit this flaw can manipulate package versions to install vulnerable or malicious older software versions, potentially undermining security patches that were specifically designed to address known vulnerabilities. The impact extends beyond simple package management disruption, as it could enable attackers to reinstall compromised software versions or bypass security controls that depend on specific package versions. This vulnerability directly conflicts with the principle of least privilege and can be leveraged to establish persistent footholds within systems.
The mitigation strategy for this vulnerability requires immediate deployment of PackageKit version 0.8.8 or later, which includes patches addressing the downgrade vulnerability. System administrators should conduct comprehensive security audits to identify systems running vulnerable PackageKit versions and implement mandatory updates. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing package integrity monitoring solutions that can detect unauthorized package modifications and maintain detailed audit trails of package installation activities. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-276, which addresses improper privilege management, and can be categorized under ATT&CK technique T1068, which involves exploiting vulnerabilities to gain system privileges. Regular security assessments and patch management protocols should be strengthened to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in package management frameworks.