CVE-2014-3697 in Pidgin
Summary
by MITRE
Absolute path traversal vulnerability in the untar_block function in win32/untar.c in Pidgin before 2.10.10 on Windows allows remote attackers to write to arbitrary files via a drive name in a tar archive of a smiley theme.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/23/2022
The CVE-2014-3697 vulnerability represents a critical absolute path traversal flaw in Pidgin's win32/untar.c component affecting versions prior to 2.10.10 on Windows systems. This vulnerability specifically targets the untar_block function which processes tar archive files containing smiley themes. The flaw arises from insufficient input validation when handling drive names within tar archives, allowing malicious actors to manipulate file paths and write content to arbitrary locations on the victim's filesystem. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and leverages the trust model inherent in software installation processes where users expect smiley themes to be safely installed in designated directories.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper path resolution logic within the untar_block function. When Pidgin processes a tar archive containing smiley themes, it fails to properly sanitize or validate drive specifications within the archive's file paths. Attackers can craft malicious tar archives containing entries with absolute Windows paths such as C:\Windows\System32\malicious.exe or other critical system directories. The function processes these paths without adequate checks to prevent traversal outside the intended installation scope, effectively bypassing normal file system security boundaries. This flaw aligns with CWE-22, which categorizes path traversal vulnerabilities as weaknesses in input validation that allow attackers to access files or directories outside the intended scope.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file system manipulation to encompass potential system compromise and persistent threats. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to overwrite critical system files, install backdoors, or create malicious executables in protected directories. The attack vector requires a victim to download and install a malicious smiley theme, typically through social engineering or compromised software distribution channels. Once exploited, the vulnerability can lead to privilege escalation, persistent malware installation, or system corruption. This represents a classic example of a privilege escalation vulnerability within client-side applications, where user interaction is required but the consequences extend far beyond simple data exposure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-3697 focus on both immediate patching and defensive measures. The primary solution involves upgrading to Pidgin version 2.10.10 or later, which includes proper input validation and path sanitization for tar archive processing. Organizations should implement strict software update policies and regularly scan for vulnerable applications in their environments. Network-level defenses such as application whitelisting can prevent execution of unauthorized code, while file system monitoring can detect unauthorized modifications to critical directories. Security teams should also consider implementing sandboxing techniques for applications that process untrusted archive files. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and the principle of least privilege in application design, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059 for execution through command and scripting interpreter and T1070 for indicator removal. Organizations should conduct regular security assessments of their client applications and implement comprehensive patch management processes to prevent exploitation of similar path traversal vulnerabilities in other software components.