CVE-2012-5619: Input Validation
A security flaw was found in the way the Sleuth Kit (TSK), a collection of UNIX-based command line tools allowing to investigate a computer, performed management of '.' (dotfile) file system entry. An attacker could use this flaw to evade detection by forensic analysis (hide certain files not to be scanned) by renaming the file in question it to be '.' file system entry.
The original reports speaks about this attack vector to be present when scanning FAT (File Allocation Table) file system. It is possible though, the flaw to be present on other file systems, which do not reserve usage of '.' entry for special purpose, too.
References: [1] http://www.openwall.com/lists/oss-security/2012/12/01/2 [2] http://sourceforge.net/mailarchive/forum.php?threadname=1305739444.2355.35.camel%40zwerfkat&forumname=sleuthkit-users [3] http://sourceforge.net/mailarchive/forum.php?threadname=20120503111900.GL18142%40hauptmenue&forumname=sleuthkit-users [4] http://labs.bitdefender.com/2012/06/flame-the-story-of-leaked-data-carried-by-human-vector/ [5] http://blog.crysys.hu/2012/06/flame-usb-dot-file-confirmed/ [6] http://www.openwall.com/lists/oss-security/2012/12/04/2
Upstream bug report: [7] http://sourceforge.net/tracker/?func=detail&aid=3523019&groupid=55685&atid=477889
Upstream patch: OSS-security post [1] mentions no upstream patch to correct this issue to be available yet / so far.
Other sources
The Sleuth Kit (TSK) 4.0.1 does not properly handle "." (dotfile) file system entries in FAT file systems and other file systems for which . is not a reserved name, which allows local users to hide activities it more difficult to conduct forensics activities, as demonstrated by Flame.
— MITRE
Affected Software
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2012-5619?
CVE-2012-5619 is considered a high-severity vulnerability due to its potential to allow attackers to hide files from forensic analysis.
How do I fix CVE-2012-5619?
To fix CVE-2012-5619, users should upgrade to a patched version of The Sleuth Kit that addresses this vulnerability.
What systems are affected by CVE-2012-5619?
CVE-2012-5619 affects The Sleuth Kit version 4.0.1 and potentially other versions if they share the same flaw.
What is the impact of exploiting CVE-2012-5619?
Exploiting CVE-2012-5619 can enable attackers to evade detection during forensic investigations, potentially compromising data integrity.
Who can be impacted by CVE-2012-5619?
Digital forensic investigators and organizations relying on The Sleuth Kit for investigations can be impacted by CVE-2012-5619.