CVE-2014-0593 in Open Build Service
Summary
by MITRE
The set_version script as shipped with obs-service-set_version is a source validator for the Open Build Service (OBS). In versions prior to 0.5.3-1.1 this script did not properly sanitize the input provided by the user, allowing for code execution on the executing server.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/22/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-0593 resides within the set_version script component of the obs-service-set_version package used in the Open Build Service ecosystem. This service functions as a source validator that processes version information for software packages being built within the OBS environment. The flaw manifests in versions prior to 0.5.3-1.1 where insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms exist within the script's processing logic. The Open Build Service operates as a comprehensive software build and distribution platform that enables organizations to create and manage software packages across multiple operating systems and architectures, making it a critical infrastructure component for many software development workflows.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the script's failure to properly sanitize user-provided input before executing any processing operations. When users submit version information or related parameters through the OBS interface, the set_version script accepts these inputs without adequate validation or sanitization measures. This creates a classic command injection vulnerability where maliciously crafted input can be interpreted and executed as shell commands on the server hosting the OBS service. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-78, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands, and represents a critical weakness in input validation and output encoding practices. Attackers can exploit this flaw by providing specially crafted input that includes shell metacharacters or command sequences, enabling arbitrary code execution on the target server with the privileges of the OBS service user.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution capabilities, as it fundamentally compromises the security posture of any OBS installation running vulnerable versions. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can gain full control over the build server, potentially leading to unauthorized package modifications, data exfiltration, or the deployment of malicious software into the build pipeline. This threat is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where OBS servers may be used to build critical software components or where the build infrastructure contains sensitive information. The vulnerability affects the integrity and availability of the entire software build process, as attackers could modify build scripts, inject backdoors into packages, or disrupt legitimate build operations. According to ATT&CK framework domain T1059, this vulnerability maps to the command and scripting interpreter tactic, specifically targeting the execution of malicious code through shell command injection techniques.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-0593 require immediate patching of the obs-service-set_version package to version 0.5.3-1.1 or later, which includes proper input sanitization and validation mechanisms. Organizations should implement additional defensive measures including input validation at multiple layers, regular security audits of build service configurations, and monitoring for suspicious build activities or unauthorized modifications. Network segmentation and access controls should be enforced to limit exposure of the OBS service to trusted users only, while regular vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar input validation weaknesses in other components of the build infrastructure. The remediation process should also include comprehensive testing to ensure that the patch does not break existing legitimate functionality while maintaining the security improvements. System administrators should establish monitoring protocols to detect potential exploitation attempts and maintain detailed logs of all build service activities for forensic analysis purposes.