CVE-2013-2012 in autojump
Summary
by MITRE
autojump before 21.5.8 allows local users to gain privileges via a Trojan horse custom_install directory in the current working directory.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/01/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-2012 affects autojump versions prior to 21.5.8 and represents a privilege escalation flaw that exploits insecure directory handling during installation processes. This vulnerability specifically targets the custom_install directory functionality within the autojump utility, which is designed to help users navigate filesystems more efficiently by remembering previously visited directories. The issue arises when the autojump installation script fails to properly validate or sanitize the current working directory, creating an opportunity for local attackers to manipulate the installation process through malicious directory structures.
The technical flaw stems from the autojump installation mechanism not properly verifying the integrity of the working directory during the setup phase. When a user executes the installation script, the system expects to find a specific directory structure containing installation files. However, if an attacker places a malicious custom_install directory in the current working directory before running the installation, the script will inadvertently execute code from this attacker-controlled location. This behavior violates fundamental security principles of least privilege and proper input validation, allowing unauthorized code execution with elevated privileges. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, and CWE-78, which covers OS command injection through insecure input handling.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant for systems where autojump is commonly installed, particularly in development environments and user workstations where local privilege escalation opportunities are highly valuable to attackers. Local users who can execute the autojump installation script can leverage this flaw to gain elevated privileges, potentially allowing them to modify system files, install malware, or establish persistent access to the compromised system. The attack vector is relatively simple and does not require network connectivity or complex exploitation techniques, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users have regular access to system installation processes. This vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers local privilege escalation through the exploitation of system configuration weaknesses, and T1548.001, which addresses abuse of system privileges through legitimate system tools.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate upgrading to autojump version 21.5.8 or later, which contains the necessary security patches to properly validate directory structures during installation. System administrators should also implement proper access controls to limit who can execute installation scripts and regularly audit system directories for unauthorized modifications. The installation process should be modified to explicitly check for and reject malicious directory structures, ensuring that only trusted installation sources are processed. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing privilege separation mechanisms and monitoring for unusual installation activities that might indicate exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments of commonly used system utilities can help identify similar vulnerabilities in other tools that may share similar installation patterns or directory handling behaviors.