CVE-2014-3865 in dpkg
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple directory traversal vulnerabilities in dpkg-source in dpkg-dev 1.3.0 allow remote attackers to modify files outside of the intended directories via a source package with a crafted Index: pseudo-header in conjunction with (1) missing --- and +++ header lines or (2) a +++ header line with a blank pathname.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/24/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-3865 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the dpkg-source utility of the dpkg-dev package ecosystem. This vulnerability specifically affects versions of dpkg-dev dating back to 1.3.0, creating a significant security risk for systems that rely on package management and source code handling. The flaw manifests through the manipulation of source package pseudo-headers, particularly the Index: field, which is processed during the extraction and handling of source packages. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-22 category for Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, commonly known as Path Traversal, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter.
The technical exploitation mechanism involves crafting malicious source packages that contain specially formatted Index: pseudo-headers. When dpkg-source processes these packages, it fails to properly validate or sanitize the pathname information contained within these headers. The vulnerability can be triggered through two distinct attack vectors: either by omitting the required --- and +++ header lines that typically define file boundaries, or by including a +++ header line that contains a blank pathname. These malformed headers cause the utility to interpret the source package contents in a way that allows arbitrary file modification outside of the intended target directories. The underlying flaw stems from insufficient input validation and path resolution mechanisms within the dpkg-source utility's parsing logic, which fails to properly restrict file system access based on the source package's intended scope.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file modification, potentially enabling attackers to compromise entire system configurations and installed packages. An attacker who can successfully exploit this vulnerability could modify critical system files, inject malicious code into packages, or overwrite important configuration files that govern system behavior. This poses a particularly serious threat in environments where automated package building and distribution systems are in use, as these systems often process untrusted source packages from external contributors. The vulnerability affects the integrity of the package management ecosystem, potentially allowing attackers to compromise software supply chain security and undermine trust in package repositories. The attack surface is broad as any system that utilizes dpkg-source for processing source packages, including build servers, continuous integration pipelines, and package repositories, could be affected.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate version updates to dpkg-dev packages that contain the patched version of dpkg-source. System administrators should prioritize patching affected systems to ensure that the vulnerable code paths are eliminated. Additionally, organizations should implement strict source package validation processes that inspect and sanitize input before processing. The implementation of proper input validation and path sanitization measures within package management utilities serves as a defensive mechanism against similar vulnerabilities. Security monitoring should include detection of malformed source package headers and unusual file modification patterns. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of systems that process untrusted source packages. This vulnerability underscores the importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices, particularly in utilities that handle file system operations and package management functions, as highlighted by security frameworks such as the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines.