CVE-2014-7206 in Apt
Summary
by MITRE
The changelog command in Apt before 1.0.9.2 allows local users to write to arbitrary files via a symlink attack on the changelog file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/12/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-7206 represents a significant local privilege escalation risk within the Advanced Package Tool ecosystem, specifically affecting apt versions prior to 1.0.9.2. This flaw resides in the changelog command implementation where inadequate file handling mechanisms fail to properly validate file operations, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by local attackers to manipulate arbitrary files on the system. The vulnerability stems from insufficient symlink resolution checks during the changelog file processing, allowing malicious actors to craft symbolic links that redirect file operations to unintended destinations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a classic symlink attack pattern where an attacker creates a symbolic link with a carefully crafted name that mimics the expected changelog file path. When the vulnerable apt changelog command executes, it follows the symbolic link and writes content to the target file specified by the attacker rather than the intended changelog location. This primitive allows for arbitrary file write operations with the privileges of the user executing the changelog command, which typically runs with elevated permissions during package management operations. The flaw aligns with CWE-59, which describes improper link resolution without Limiting Recursion, and demonstrates how inadequate file system access controls can lead to privilege escalation.
Operationally, this vulnerability poses a substantial risk to system integrity as it enables local users to modify critical system files, potentially leading to persistent backdoors, privilege escalation to root privileges, or data corruption. Attackers could leverage this to overwrite configuration files, inject malicious code into system binaries, or manipulate package management databases to maintain unauthorized access. The impact extends beyond immediate privilege escalation as it can compromise the entire package management infrastructure, potentially affecting system updates and security patches. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in multi-user environments where local users might not have direct access to system-critical files but could exploit this weakness to gain elevated privileges.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-7206 primarily involve upgrading to apt version 1.0.9.2 or later, which includes proper symlink validation and file handling mechanisms. System administrators should implement immediate patch management protocols to address this vulnerability across all affected systems. Additional protective measures include implementing proper file system permissions, restricting write access to package management directories, and monitoring for suspicious file creation patterns. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under privilege escalation techniques, specifically leveraging weaknesses in software to gain elevated system privileges. Organizations should also consider implementing process monitoring to detect anomalous file operations and establish baseline system states to quickly identify unauthorized modifications. Regular security audits of package management tools and maintaining up-to-date system configurations remain essential defensive measures against similar vulnerabilities in the software supply chain.