CVE-2013-4166 in Evolution
Summary
by MITRE
The gpg_ctx_add_recipient function in camel/camel-gpg-context.c in GNOME Evolution 3.8.4 and earlier and Evolution Data Server 3.9.5 and earlier does not properly select the GPG key to use for email encryption, which might cause the email to be encrypted with the wrong key and allow remote attackers to obtain sensitive information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/25/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-4166 resides within the GNOME Evolution email client and Evolution Data Server components, specifically in the camel-gpg-context.c file where the gpg_ctx_add_recipient function fails to properly select GPG keys for email encryption operations. This flaw represents a critical security weakness that directly impacts the integrity and confidentiality of encrypted email communications. The issue affects versions up to Evolution 3.8.4 and Evolution Data Server 3.9.5, making it a widespread concern for users relying on these email clients for secure communications.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability stems from improper key selection logic within the GPG encryption context handling mechanism. When users attempt to encrypt emails, the system should select the appropriate recipient's public key based on the email address or other identifying criteria. However, the flawed implementation fails to correctly match the intended recipient with their corresponding GPG key, potentially resulting in encryption using an incorrect key. This misselection can occur due to insufficient validation of key identifiers, improper key matching algorithms, or inadequate key store interrogation methods. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-225, which deals with weaknesses in key selection and management processes, specifically relating to improper handling of cryptographic key selection.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple encryption failures, creating significant risks for confidentiality and data integrity. When emails are encrypted with incorrect keys, the security assurances provided by end-to-end encryption are compromised, potentially allowing unauthorized parties to intercept and read sensitive communications. Remote attackers can exploit this weakness to gain access to information that should remain protected, particularly in environments where users rely on GPG encryption for secure email communications. The vulnerability particularly affects business and government users who depend on email encryption for protecting sensitive data, making it a serious concern for organizations with strict information security requirements. This weakness aligns with ATT&CK technique T1552.004, which covers unsecured credentials and key material, as the improper key selection creates opportunities for credential and data compromise.
The exploitation of this vulnerability typically occurs when an attacker can influence the key selection process or when the system encounters ambiguous key identifiers that lead to incorrect key matching. This flaw can be particularly dangerous in scenarios where multiple keys exist for similar identifiers or when key expiration and trust relationships are not properly considered during the selection process. Organizations using affected versions of GNOME Evolution should immediately implement mitigations including updating to patched versions, implementing additional key validation procedures, and conducting security audits of their email encryption practices. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper cryptographic key management and selection processes, highlighting how seemingly minor implementation flaws can have significant security implications in email encryption systems.