CVE-2014-3864 in dpkg-dev
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in dpkg-source in dpkg-dev 1.3.0 allows remote attackers to modify files outside of the intended directories via a crafted source package that lacks a --- header line.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/22/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-3864 represents a directory traversal flaw within the dpkg-source utility component of the dpkg-dev package suite version 1.3.0. This directory traversal vulnerability specifically affects the handling of source package files during the extraction and processing phases of Debian package management operations. The flaw stems from insufficient validation of source package headers, particularly when the crucial --- header line is absent from crafted malicious packages. This vulnerability exists in the context of Debian package management systems and affects systems that process untrusted source packages through dpkg-source utility. The issue is particularly concerning because dpkg-source is commonly used in software distribution channels where source packages are processed and potentially modified before being built into binary packages. The vulnerability allows for arbitrary file modification outside of intended directories, which can lead to privilege escalation, system compromise, or data corruption.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the way dpkg-source processes source package headers and handles file paths during extraction operations. When a source package lacks the required --- header line, the utility fails to properly sanitize or validate the file paths that are specified within the package contents. This absence of header validation creates an opportunity for attackers to manipulate the extraction process by crafting source packages that contain malicious file paths. The vulnerability specifically targets the path resolution mechanism within dpkg-source, allowing attackers to traverse directory boundaries and write files to locations outside the intended extraction directory. This flaw aligns with CWE-22 directory traversal weakness, which describes the condition where untrusted input is used to construct file paths without proper validation, leading to unauthorized access or modification of files. The vulnerability operates at the file system level where path traversal attacks can result in arbitrary code execution or privilege escalation when combined with other system vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-3864 extends beyond simple file modification capabilities and can result in significant security compromise within Debian-based systems. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to overwrite critical system files, install backdoors, or modify configuration files that control system behavior. The vulnerability affects the integrity of package management workflows where source packages are processed, potentially compromising the entire software supply chain. When exploited in environments where dpkg-source is used to process untrusted packages, this vulnerability can enable attackers to modify system binaries, configuration files, or other critical components. The attack vector typically involves sending a crafted source package to a system that processes it through dpkg-source, which can occur in automated build environments, package repositories, or during manual package processing. The impact is particularly severe in environments where automated package building or processing occurs without proper validation of source package integrity. This vulnerability can also contribute to broader compromise when combined with other weaknesses in package management systems, potentially leading to complete system compromise through privilege escalation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-3864 focus on both immediate patching and operational security improvements. The primary recommendation involves updating to dpkg-dev versions that contain the patched dpkg-source utility, which properly validates source package headers and prevents directory traversal attacks. System administrators should implement strict source package validation procedures before processing untrusted packages through dpkg-source. This includes verifying package integrity through cryptographic signatures and implementing sandboxing mechanisms for source package processing. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure to systems that process untrusted source packages. The implementation of automated security scanning tools can help identify and prevent the processing of malicious source packages. Additionally, security monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous file modification patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. These mitigations align with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for executing commands through package managers and T1078.004 for valid accounts, as the vulnerability could enable attackers to establish persistent access through compromised package management systems. Regular security audits of package management workflows and source package handling procedures should be conducted to ensure proper implementation of these security controls.