CVE-2013-4482 in Red Hat
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in python-paste-script (aka paster) in Luci 0.26.0, when started using the initscript, allows local users to gain privileges via a Trojan horse .egg-info file in the (1) current working directory or (2) its parent directories.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/10/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-4482 represents a critical untrusted search path issue within the python-paste-script package, specifically affecting Luci version 0.26.0. This flaw manifests when the paster application is initiated through its designated initscript, creating a privileged execution environment where local attackers can manipulate the software's behavior through carefully crafted file placement. The vulnerability stems from the application's failure to properly validate directory paths during module resolution, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary code by placing specially crafted files in strategic locations within the file system hierarchy.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the inherent trust placed in the current working directory and parent directories during the Python module loading process. When paster executes under elevated privileges through the initscript, it traverses the directory structure to locate and load required modules, including .egg-info files that contain metadata about installed packages. The flaw occurs because the application does not perform adequate path validation or sanitization before processing these files, creating an opportunity for privilege escalation attacks. Attackers can place malicious .egg-info files in either the current working directory or parent directories, causing the application to load and execute unintended code with elevated privileges.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it enables attackers to gain unauthorized access to systems running Luci 0.26.0 with elevated privileges. This creates a significant security risk for enterprise environments where Luci is deployed, as local users can potentially compromise entire systems through this vector. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates silently without requiring network access or user interaction, making it difficult to detect through traditional monitoring approaches. The attack chain typically involves placing malicious files in directories where the application will search for dependencies, then triggering the application through normal operations to execute the malicious payload.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-4482 must address both the immediate vulnerability and broader security practices within the affected environment. Organizations should immediately upgrade to patched versions of Luci and python-paste-script to eliminate the untrusted search path behavior. System administrators should implement proper directory permissions and access controls to prevent unauthorized file placement in critical directories. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by ensuring that applications run with minimal required permissions rather than elevated privileges. Additionally, security monitoring should include detection of suspicious file placement activities in system directories and automated scanning for potential malicious .egg-info files. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-427 Uncontrolled Search Path Element, which specifically addresses the danger of untrusted search paths in software applications. The attack pattern corresponds to techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under privilege escalation tactics, particularly focusing on local privilege escalation through software supply chain compromise. Organizations should also consider implementing runtime application self-protection measures and regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in their software ecosystems, as this type of flaw demonstrates the ongoing need for secure coding practices and proper input validation in application development.