CVE-2001-1146 in AllCommerce
Summary
by MITRE
AllCommerce with debugging enabled in EnGarde Secure Linux 1.0.1 creates temporary files with predictable names, which allows local users to modify files via a symlink attack.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/31/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2001-1146 represents a classic file system security flaw that emerged in the context of AllCommerce software running on EnGarde Secure Linux 1.0.1. This issue stems from the software's debugging functionality which, when enabled, generates temporary files using predictable naming conventions. The fundamental security weakness lies in the deterministic nature of these file names, which creates opportunities for malicious local users to exploit the system through symlink attacks. This vulnerability specifically targets the temporary file creation mechanism within the AllCommerce application, exposing it to privilege escalation and data integrity compromise scenarios.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the predictable naming of temporary files that are created during the debugging process. When debugging is enabled, the AllCommerce application generates temporary files with fixed or easily guessable names that follow a specific pattern. Local attackers can exploit this predictability by creating symbolic links with the same names before the legitimate application creates its temporary files. This symlink attack allows attackers to redirect the application's file operations to arbitrary locations, potentially enabling them to modify critical system files, inject malicious code, or gain elevated privileges within the system. The flaw directly relates to CWE-377, which addresses insecure temporary file creation practices and improper handling of symbolic links in file operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file modification capabilities, as it provides a pathway for local privilege escalation and persistent system compromise. Attackers can leverage this weakness to manipulate the application's behavior, potentially gaining access to sensitive data or system resources that should remain protected. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it requires only local user access to exploit, meaning that any user with access to the system can potentially leverage this flaw. This makes it a significant concern for environments where multiple users share the same system or where privilege separation is not properly enforced. The attack vector is straightforward yet effective, as it exploits the fundamental assumption that temporary files created by applications are properly secured and not susceptible to symlink-based manipulation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2001-1146 should focus on eliminating the predictable temporary file naming and implementing proper security controls around temporary file creation. Organizations should disable debugging features in production environments where possible, as these features often introduce unnecessary security risks. The recommended approach involves modifying the application to use secure temporary file creation methods that avoid predictable naming patterns, such as utilizing system functions that generate random or unique temporary file names. Additionally, implementing proper file permissions and access controls around temporary file directories can prevent unauthorized symlink creation. System administrators should also consider employing the principle of least privilege, ensuring that applications run with minimal required permissions and that temporary file directories have restrictive access controls. This vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices and the need for regular security assessments of applications, particularly those with debugging features that may remain enabled in production environments. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under privilege escalation techniques, specifically leveraging insecure file permissions and predictable file names to gain elevated system access.