CVE-2014-1833 in devscripts
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in uupdate in devscripts 2.14.1 allows remote attackers to modify arbitrary files via a crafted .orig.tar file, related to a symlink.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/20/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-1833 represents a directory traversal flaw within the uupdate utility component of the devscripts package version 2.14.1. This directory traversal vulnerability specifically manifests when processing crafted .orig.tar files, creating a significant security risk for systems that utilize this tool for package management and software development workflows. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and path handling mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize file paths during archive extraction operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the manipulation of symbolic links within the .orig.tar archive structure to bypass normal file system access controls. When uupdate processes a maliciously crafted archive, it follows symbolic links without proper validation, allowing attackers to traverse the file system hierarchy and write to arbitrary locations. This behavior aligns with CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as directory traversal or path traversal attacks. The vulnerability specifically exploits the way the tool handles symbolic links during archive extraction, creating a scenario where attacker-controlled symbolic links can redirect file operations to unintended destinations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file modification capabilities, as it provides remote attackers with the ability to compromise system integrity and potentially execute arbitrary code. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to overwrite critical system files, modify configuration settings, or install malicious components within the target environment. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur without physical access to the system, making it particularly dangerous in networked environments where development tools are frequently updated. This vulnerability affects the broader software development lifecycle by potentially compromising the integrity of package management processes and development environments that rely on devscripts for automated build and update operations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-1833 should focus on immediate patching of affected devscripts versions, with administrators prioritizing updates to versions that contain proper input validation and path sanitization measures. System administrators should implement additional protective measures including restricting write permissions for development tools, implementing proper file system access controls, and monitoring for suspicious file operations. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices in development tools, particularly regarding path validation and symbolic link handling, as outlined in ATT&CK technique T1059.1004 for execution through development tools. Organizations should also consider implementing automated vulnerability scanning processes to identify and remediate similar issues in other development utilities and build tools within their software development environments.