CVE-2022-1664 in dpkg
Summary
by MITRE • 05/26/2022
Dpkg::Source::Archive in dpkg, the Debian package management system, before version 1.21.8, 1.20.10, 1.19.8, 1.18.26 is prone to a directory traversal vulnerability. When extracting untrusted source packages in v2 and v3 source package formats that include a debian.tar, the in-place extraction can lead to directory traversal situations on specially crafted orig.tar and debian.tar tarballs.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/01/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-1664 resides within the Dpkg::Source::Archive module of dpkg, the core Debian package management system. This directory traversal flaw affects multiple versions of dpkg including those prior to 1.21.8, 1.20.10, 1.19.8, and 1.18.26, representing a significant security risk for systems relying on Debian-based distributions. The vulnerability specifically targets the extraction process of source packages using v2 and v3 formats that contain debian.tar archives, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate file placement during package installation.
The technical flaw manifests during the in-place extraction of source packages where specially crafted tarballs can exploit the extraction logic to traverse directories beyond the intended target location. When processing orig.tar and debian.tar tarballs within the v2 and v3 source package formats, the system fails to properly validate or sanitize file paths contained within these archives. This allows attackers to place files outside of the designated extraction directory, potentially overwriting critical system files or creating malicious files in privileged locations. The vulnerability operates at the filesystem level during package management operations, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through legitimate package management workflows.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it can enable attackers to compromise the integrity of the entire package management system. Systems running affected versions of dpkg become susceptible to arbitrary file creation and modification, potentially allowing adversaries to install malicious packages or modify existing system components. This vulnerability particularly affects environments where untrusted source packages are processed, such as package repositories, build systems, or development environments. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it leverages legitimate package management functionality, making detection more challenging and potentially allowing persistent backdoor installations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-1664 primarily focus on upgrading to patched versions of dpkg, specifically versions 1.21.8, 1.20.10, 1.19.8, or 1.18.26, depending on the system's Debian release. Organizations should implement immediate patch management procedures to ensure all affected systems are updated. Additional protective measures include implementing strict package verification processes, avoiding processing untrusted source packages, and employing sandboxing techniques when handling package installations. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous file creation patterns during package management operations, and system administrators should consider implementing automated vulnerability scanning tools that can identify systems running vulnerable versions of dpkg.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Directory Traversal and maps to ATT&CK technique T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter, specifically targeting the package management system as an attack surface. The flaw demonstrates how seemingly benign package management operations can be exploited to achieve system compromise, making it a critical vulnerability for enterprise security teams to address promptly. The issue represents a fundamental breakdown in input validation within the package management infrastructure, highlighting the importance of secure coding practices in critical system components that handle user-provided data.