CVE-2001-0744 in IMP
Summary
by MITRE
Horde IMP 2.2.4 and earlier allows local users to overwrite files via a symlink attack on a temporary file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/04/2018
This vulnerability exists in Horde IMP 2.2.4 and earlier versions, representing a classic file system security flaw that enables local attackers to manipulate file operations through symbolic link manipulation. The issue stems from improper handling of temporary files during the email composition process within the Horde IMP webmail application, which operates under the assumption that temporary files will not be compromised by malicious symbolic link creation. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-59, which specifically addresses improper handling of symbolic links, making it a direct descendant of the broader category of path traversal and file system manipulation attacks.
The technical flaw manifests when the application creates temporary files without properly validating or securing the file system context in which these temporary files are created. Local users can exploit this by creating malicious symbolic links that point to sensitive system files or configuration files before the application attempts to write to the temporary location. This allows attackers to overwrite critical files with arbitrary content, potentially leading to privilege escalation or complete system compromise. The vulnerability operates at the file system level where the application does not implement proper atomic file creation mechanisms or directory validation checks that would prevent such attacks from succeeding.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant for systems running affected versions of Horde IMP, as it provides local attackers with a straightforward method to manipulate the application's behavior and potentially gain elevated privileges. Since the attack requires only local access, it can be particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where users may have varying privilege levels. The vulnerability essentially allows an attacker to bypass normal file system permissions and access controls, potentially enabling them to modify system configuration files, inject malicious code into application components, or disrupt normal application operation. This type of attack falls under the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, and T1548.001 for Abuse of Service Accounts, when leveraged for privilege escalation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate patching to versions that properly implement secure temporary file creation practices, such as using atomic file creation methods that prevent symbolic link attacks. System administrators should also implement proper file system permissions and ensure that temporary directories are properly secured with restrictive access controls. The recommended approach involves configuring applications to create temporary files with unique names and in secure directories that cannot be manipulated by local users through symbolic link creation. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and file system context checks during temporary file operations can prevent this class of vulnerability from being exploited. Organizations should also consider implementing monitoring for suspicious file system activities and ensure that all web applications undergo proper security reviews to identify similar path traversal and file system manipulation vulnerabilities.