CVE-2014-0479 in reportbug
Summary
by MITRE
reportbug before 6.4.4+deb7u1 and 6.5.x before 6.5.0+nmu1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via vectors related to compare_versions and reportbug/checkversions.py.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/26/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-0479 affects the reportbug utility, a tool commonly used in debian-based systems for reporting bugs to package maintainers. This flaw exists in versions prior to 6.4.4+deb7u1 and 6.5.x before 6.5.0+nmu1, representing a critical security weakness that could enable remote code execution through improper input handling. The vulnerability specifically relates to command injection opportunities within the compare_versions functionality and the reportbug/checkversions.py script, which are integral components of the bug reporting process.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the reportbug utility's version comparison mechanisms. When the tool processes version strings or handles version checking operations, it fails to properly sanitize user-supplied input before incorporating it into system commands or shell executions. This creates an environment where malicious actors can inject arbitrary commands through carefully crafted version identifiers or checkversion parameters. The flaw operates at the intersection of command injection and input validation weaknesses, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited remotely without requiring local system access.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risks to debian-based systems where reportbug is installed and actively used. Attackers can leverage this weakness to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems with the privileges of the user running reportbug, potentially leading to full system compromise. The impact extends beyond individual system exploitation as compromised systems could be used as launching points for broader network attacks. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not need physical access to the target system, making it particularly concerning for publicly accessible debian systems or those exposed to untrusted networks. According to CWE classification, this vulnerability maps to CWE-78, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands, and CWE-20, covering improper input validation. The ATT&CK framework would categorize this under T1059.001 for command and script injection techniques, potentially leading to privilege escalation and lateral movement within compromised environments.
The mitigation strategy for CVE-2014-0479 requires immediate patching of affected reportbug versions to the patched releases mentioned in the advisory. System administrators should ensure that all debian-based systems running reportbug are updated to version 6.4.4+deb7u1 or 6.5.0+nmu1, or newer, which contain the necessary fixes for input sanitization. Additionally, network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of systems running reportbug to untrusted users. Regular vulnerability scanning and monitoring should be employed to detect any remaining vulnerable instances. The fix typically involves implementing proper input validation and sanitization within the compare_versions function and reportbug/checkversions.py script to prevent command injection attacks. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies and monitoring for suspicious command execution patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of proper input validation in security-critical applications and the potential for seemingly benign tools to become attack vectors when inadequate sanitization measures are in place.