CVE-2017-0373 in Config-Model
Summary
by MITRE
The gen_class_pod implementation in lib/Config/Model/Utils/GenClassPod.pm in Config-Model (aka libconfig-model-perl) before 2.102 has a dangerous "use lib" line, which allows remote attackers to have an unspecified impact via a crafted Debian package file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/07/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-0373 affects the Config-Model Perl module, specifically within the lib/Config/Model/Utils/GenClassPod.pm component. This flaw resides in the implementation of the gen_class_pod function that handles Debian package file processing. The vulnerability stems from an insecure "use lib" directive that is improperly constructed, creating a path manipulation opportunity for malicious actors. The issue exists in versions prior to 2.102 of the libconfig-model-perl package, making older installations particularly susceptible to exploitation.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the improper handling of library paths during the processing of Debian package files. When the gen_class_pod function encounters a crafted Debian package, the dangerous "use lib" line allows attackers to manipulate the Perl library search path. This path manipulation occurs because the implementation does not properly sanitize or validate the library paths that are being added to the @INC array. The vulnerability falls under the category of path traversal and library injection attacks, where an attacker can influence the execution environment by modifying how Perl resolves module dependencies.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it allows remote attackers to potentially execute arbitrary code or cause denial of service conditions. Attackers can craft malicious Debian package files that, when processed by the vulnerable Config-Model component, will result in the execution of unintended code from attacker-controlled locations. This represents a privilege escalation vector since the module may be running with elevated privileges during package processing. The unspecified impact mentioned in the CVE description suggests that the attack could lead to various security consequences including arbitrary code execution, data corruption, or system compromise, depending on the execution context and the attacker's objectives.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-427 Uncontrolled Search Path Element, which describes situations where applications use untrusted input to construct library search paths without proper sanitization. The flaw also maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 Command and Scripting Interpreter: Perl, as it enables attackers to leverage Perl-based exploitation vectors. Additionally, the vulnerability demonstrates characteristics of T1548.001 Account Manipulation, since successful exploitation could potentially allow attackers to modify system configurations or gain unauthorized access to system resources. Organizations using vulnerable versions of libconfig-model-perl should immediately apply the patch released in version 2.102, which properly sanitizes the library paths and eliminates the dangerous "use lib" directive. System administrators should also implement monitoring for suspicious package processing activities and consider restricting access to package management functions to trusted users only. The fix typically involves ensuring that all library paths are validated and sanitized before being added to the Perl execution environment, preventing attackers from injecting malicious code through crafted package files.