CVE-2016-10642 in cmake
Summary
by MITRE
cmake installs the cmake x86 linux binaries. cmake downloads binary resources over HTTP, which leaves it vulnerable to MITM attacks. It may be possible to cause remote code execution (RCE) by swapping out the requested binary with an attacker controlled binary if the attacker is on the network or positioned in between the user and the remote server.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/14/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-10642 represents a critical security flaw in the cmake build system software that affects x86 Linux installations. This issue stems from cmake's insecure practice of downloading binary resources over unencrypted HTTP connections rather than secure HTTPS protocols. The fundamental technical flaw lies in the absence of transport layer security during the binary download process, creating an exploitable attack surface that can be leveraged by malicious actors positioned within the network infrastructure.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data interception, as it creates a pathway for remote code execution through man-in-the-middle attack vectors. When cmake attempts to download required binary resources from remote servers, attackers who can intercept network traffic between the user system and the remote server can substitute the legitimate binary with a maliciously crafted version. This substitution attack, known as a man-in-the-middle attack pattern, allows adversaries to execute arbitrary code on the target system with the privileges of the user running cmake, potentially leading to full system compromise.
The vulnerability directly maps to CWE-319, which specifically addresses the exposure of sensitive information through improper use of network protocols, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol usage. The attack surface is particularly concerning because cmake is widely used across development environments and continuous integration systems, making it an attractive target for attackers seeking to compromise development infrastructure. The risk is amplified by the fact that many development environments do not implement additional verification mechanisms such as cryptographic checksums or digital signatures for downloaded components.
Organizations can mitigate this vulnerability through several approaches including implementing mandatory use of HTTPS for all cmake downloads, deploying network security controls such as SSL inspection and deep packet inspection to prevent HTTP traffic, and establishing proper binary verification processes using cryptographic hashes. System administrators should also consider configuring cmake to use local mirrors or internal repositories with verified content, and implementing network segmentation to limit the attack surface. Additionally, regular security audits of build environments and the implementation of software supply chain security measures can help prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in other components. The vulnerability underscores the critical importance of secure software distribution practices and the necessity of implementing end-to-end encryption for all binary downloads in development toolchains.