CVE-2014-0471 in dpkg
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in the unpacking functionality in dpkg before 1.15.9, 1.16.x before 1.16.13, and 1.17.x before 1.17.8 allows remote attackers to write arbitrary files via a crafted source package, related to "C-style filename quoting."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/12/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-0471 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the dpkg package management system, a fundamental component of debian-based linux distributions. This weakness exists in the unpacking functionality of dpkg versions prior to 1.15.9, 1.16.13, and 1.17.8 respectively, exposing systems to potential remote code execution and arbitrary file manipulation. The vulnerability specifically leverages C-style filename quoting mechanisms within source packages, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit the package management infrastructure.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through crafted source packages that contain specially formatted filenames with C-style escape sequences. When dpkg processes these packages during unpacking, the directory traversal occurs due to insufficient input validation and sanitization of filenames. Attackers can manipulate the unpacking process to write files to arbitrary locations on the filesystem, potentially overwriting critical system files or creating malicious files in privileged directories. This flaw operates at the core of package management operations, where the system expects to safely unpack and install software components without compromising system integrity.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-0471 extends beyond simple file manipulation, as it can lead to complete system compromise when exploited in conjunction with other attack vectors. Remote attackers who can influence the package building or installation process can leverage this vulnerability to install malicious software, modify system binaries, or establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in environments where automated package installation occurs or where users have the ability to process untrusted source packages. This weakness directly violates the principle of least privilege and can result in privilege escalation attacks, as the unpacking process typically requires elevated permissions to modify system files.
This vulnerability maps to CWE-22 Directory Traversal and aligns with several ATT&CK techniques including T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1068 Exploitation for Privilege Escalation. The attack surface is significant as dpkg is a core component of debian and ubuntu systems, making this vulnerability widespread across numerous linux environments. Organizations running vulnerable versions of dpkg are at risk of complete system compromise, as the vulnerability allows attackers to bypass normal file system access controls and write to protected locations. The remediation requires immediate patching of dpkg to versions that properly sanitize filenames during unpacking operations, along with implementing proper input validation measures to prevent similar vulnerabilities in other components.
The broader implications of this vulnerability highlight the importance of secure coding practices in system-level software components. Package management systems like dpkg handle sensitive operations that require robust input validation and sanitization to prevent attackers from manipulating the installation process. This vulnerability demonstrates how seemingly innocuous features like C-style filename quoting can become security risks when not properly validated, emphasizing the need for comprehensive security testing of core system components. Organizations should implement regular security assessments of their package management infrastructure and maintain up-to-date systems to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities like CVE-2014-0471.