CVE-2014-0466 in a2ps
Summary
by MITRE
The fixps script in a2ps 4.14 does not use the -dSAFER option when executing gs, which allows context-dependent attackers to delete arbitrary files or execute arbitrary commands via a crafted PostScript file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/09/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-0466 resides within the a2ps package version 4.14, specifically in the fixps script component that interfaces with the Ghostscript (gs) interpreter. This flaw represents a critical security weakness that enables context-dependent attackers to exploit the system through malicious PostScript file manipulation. The vulnerability stems from the script's failure to invoke the -dSAFER parameter when executing Ghostscript commands, thereby bypassing essential security restrictions that would normally prevent file system access and command execution. The absence of this safety parameter creates an environment where malicious payloads can leverage the script's execution context to perform unauthorized operations on the host system.
This security flaw operates through a privilege escalation vector that leverages the script's interaction with the Ghostscript interpreter, which is commonly used for PostScript file processing. When a malicious PostScript file is processed through the vulnerable fixps script, the lack of -dSAFER option allows the interpreter to execute commands that would normally be restricted. The vulnerability specifically enables attackers to delete arbitrary files from the system or execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the user running the script. This represents a direct violation of the principle of least privilege and creates a pathway for attackers to compromise system integrity and potentially escalate their access to higher privilege levels.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-0466 extends beyond simple file deletion capabilities to encompass full command execution privileges within the affected system environment. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain persistent access to systems, establish backdoors, or perform reconnaissance activities that would otherwise be blocked by proper security controls. The vulnerability affects systems where a2ps is installed and used for PostScript processing, particularly in environments where users may process untrusted PostScript content or where the script is executed with elevated privileges. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-276, which addresses improper privileges, and represents a classic case of insufficient input validation combined with insecure execution practices. The attack vector typically involves social engineering or automated exploitation of systems that process user-submitted PostScript files without proper security context enforcement.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-0466 primarily focus on immediate patching of the a2ps package to version 4.14.1 or later, which incorporates the necessary -dSAFER option into the fixps script execution. System administrators should also implement restrictive file access controls and ensure that the script executes with minimal required privileges rather than elevated permissions. Additional protective measures include implementing sandboxing techniques for PostScript processing, deploying intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious script execution patterns, and establishing proper input validation for all PostScript content. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices and proper parameter handling in system utilities, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059 for command and script injection, and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation to limit potential lateral movement if exploitation occurs, and establish regular security audits to identify similar insecure execution patterns in other system components.