CVE-2019-25017 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

A vulnerability has been discovered in the rcp feature of MIT krb5-appl up to version 1.0.3, allowing malicious servers or attackers to overwrite files in the client's target directory.

Understanding CVE-2019-25017

This CVE involves a security flaw in the rcp implementation of MIT krb5-appl, potentially leading to file manipulation attacks.

What is CVE-2019-25017?

The vulnerability in the rcp feature of MIT krb5-appl up to version 1.0.3 allows a malicious rcp server or a Man-in-The-Middle attacker to overwrite files in the target directory of the rcp client.

The Impact of CVE-2019-25017

Malicious servers or attackers can overwrite any files in the target directory of the rcp client
Recursive operations can manipulate subdirectories, such as overwriting sensitive files like .ssh/authorized_keys

Technical Details of CVE-2019-25017

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The rcp implementation in MIT krb5-appl up to version 1.0.3 allows for file overwriting due to inadequate validation of object names by the client.

Affected Systems and Versions

MIT krb5-appl up to version 1.0.3

Exploitation Mechanism

Malicious rcp server or Man-in-The-Middle attacker can exploit the lack of proper validation to overwrite files in the client's target directory

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-25017 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Disable the rcp feature if not essential
Regularly monitor and review file permissions
Implement network segmentation to limit exposure

Long-Term Security Practices

Use secure file transfer protocols like SCP or SFTP
Keep software and systems updated to prevent vulnerabilities

Patching and Updates

Ensure MIT krb5-appl is updated to versions beyond 1.0.3 to mitigate this vulnerability