CVE-2004-0064 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE
The SuSEconfig.gnome-filesystem script for YaST in SuSE 9.0 allows local users to overwrite arbitrary files via a symlink attack on files within the tmp.SuSEconfig.gnome-filesystem.$RANDOM temporary directory.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/16/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2004-0064 represents a classic symlink attack scenario that exploits improper temporary file handling within the SuSEconfig.gnome-filesystem script component of SUSE Linux Enterprise 9.0. This issue arises from the script's failure to properly validate or secure temporary directories, creating an opportunity for local attackers to manipulate file operations through symbolic link manipulation. The vulnerability specifically targets the tmp.SuSEconfig.gnome-filesystem.$RANDOM temporary directory structure, where the $RANDOM placeholder indicates the use of a pseudo-random number generator for directory naming, but without sufficient entropy or proper access controls to prevent exploitation.
The technical flaw manifests when the SuSEconfig.gnome-filesystem script creates temporary files in a directory that can be manipulated by local users through symlink attacks. Attackers can create symbolic links within the temporary directory before the script processes them, causing the script to write data to arbitrary locations on the filesystem. This represents a direct violation of the principle of least privilege and proper temporary file handling practices, where the script should validate that temporary files are created with proper permissions and are not susceptible to manipulation by unprivileged users. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-377 as "Insecure Temporary File" and also relates to CWE-378 as "Creation of Temporary File With Insecure Permissions."
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file overwrites, as it provides attackers with potential paths to escalate privileges or compromise system integrity. Local users can leverage this flaw to modify critical system files, potentially leading to privilege escalation or persistent backdoor installation. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires minimal privileges to execute, making it accessible to any user with shell access on the system. This vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: Python" and T1074.001 for "Data Staged: Local Data Staging" when considering how attackers might use this to gain persistent access or manipulate system configurations.
The security implications of this vulnerability are compounded by the fact that it affects system configuration management tools that are critical to system administration. The SuSEconfig component is responsible for managing system configuration files during package installations and system updates, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it could allow attackers to modify system settings, configuration files, or even replace critical binaries. Mitigation strategies should include implementing proper temporary file creation with secure permissions, using atomic operations for file creation, and ensuring that scripts do not operate with elevated privileges when handling temporary files. Additionally, the system should validate that temporary directories are properly secured with restrictive permissions and that symbolic link resolution is handled safely to prevent attackers from manipulating the file system during script execution.