CVE-2018-10897 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

CVE-2018-10897 was published on August 1, 2018, and affects yum-utils versions 1.1.31 and earlier. The vulnerability allows attackers to exploit a directory traversal issue in reposync, potentially leading to system compromise.

Understanding CVE-2018-10897

This CVE involves a directory traversal vulnerability in reposync, a component of yum-utils, which could be exploited by attackers to move files to unintended locations on a system.

What is CVE-2018-10897?

The vulnerability in reposync arises from improper path validation in remote repository configuration files. Attackers gaining control of a repository could leverage this flaw to manipulate file locations on the target system, especially dangerous if reposync runs with elevated privileges.

The Impact of CVE-2018-10897

The CVSS v3.0 base score for this CVE is 8.8, indicating a high severity level. The confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems are all at risk, with no special privileges required for exploitation.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-10897

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows attackers to perform directory traversal attacks via reposync, potentially leading to unauthorized file manipulation on the target system.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: yum-utils
Vendor: The RPM Project
Affected Version: 1.1.31 and earlier

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit the vulnerability by controlling a repository and manipulating paths in remote repository configuration files to move files to unintended locations on the system.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-10897 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update yum-utils to a non-vulnerable version or apply patches provided by the vendor.
Restrict reposync's privileges and access to minimize the impact of potential attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and audit repository configurations and file movements.
Implement least privilege principles for all system components to limit the impact of potential vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches released by The RPM Project to address the directory traversal vulnerability in reposync.