CVE-2015-0855 in pitivi
Summary
by MITRE
The _mediaLibraryPlayCb function in mainwindow.py in pitivi before 0.95 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code via shell metacharacters in a file path.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/02/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-0855 resides within the pitivi media editing software version 0.95 and earlier, specifically within the mainwindow.py file in the _mediaLibraryPlayCb function. This represents a critical security flaw that enables remote code execution through improper input validation and sanitization of file paths. The vulnerability manifests when the application processes media library entries that contain shell metacharacters in their file paths, creating an environment where attacker-controlled input can be interpreted as shell commands rather than simple file references.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-78, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in shell commands, commonly known as shell injection vulnerabilities. The _mediaLibraryPlayCb function fails to properly sanitize user-provided file paths before executing shell operations, allowing malicious actors to inject shell metacharacters such as semicolons, pipes, or command substitutions. When the application processes a file path containing these special characters, the system interprets them as shell command delimiters or operators, leading to unintended execution of arbitrary commands with the privileges of the running application. This flaw operates at the intersection of input validation failure and command execution, creating a direct pathway for attackers to escalate their privileges and potentially compromise the entire system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it represents a serious threat to system integrity and user security. An attacker could leverage this vulnerability to execute malicious commands on the target system, potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive data, installing malware, or performing destructive operations. The vulnerability affects any user who interacts with the media library functionality, making it particularly dangerous in collaborative environments or when the application is used with untrusted media content. From an attacker's perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, specifically shell scripting, and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation, as it provides a direct path to executing arbitrary code with elevated privileges.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-0855 should focus on implementing proper input sanitization and validation mechanisms within the application's file path handling routines. The most effective approach involves implementing strict input validation that filters or escapes shell metacharacters from file paths before any shell operations are performed. Organizations should immediately upgrade to pitivi version 0.95 or later, where this vulnerability has been addressed through proper input sanitization and command execution mechanisms. Additionally, implementing proper privilege separation and sandboxing techniques can limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. Security measures should include monitoring for unusual command execution patterns and implementing network segmentation to limit the attack surface. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to the principle of least privilege when handling user-provided input in applications that interact with system commands.