CVE-2004-1179 in debmake
Summary
by MITRE
The debstd script in debmake 3.6.x before 3.6.10 and 3.7.x before 3.7.7 allows local users to overwrite arbitrary files via a symlink attack on temporary directories.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/02/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-1179 represents a significant security flaw in the debmake utility suite, specifically affecting versions 3.6.x prior to 3.6.10 and 3.7.x prior to 3.7.7. This issue manifests through the debstd script component which is responsible for handling package creation processes within debian packaging environments. The flaw enables local attackers to exploit a race condition or insecure temporary directory handling mechanism that can be manipulated through symbolic link attacks. The vulnerability occurs during the execution of package creation workflows where the script creates temporary directories without proper security controls, making it possible for malicious users to establish symbolic links that redirect file operations to unintended destinations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of temporary file creation and directory management within the debstd script. When the script processes package creation requests, it generates temporary directories that are not properly secured against symbolic link manipulation. Attackers can exploit this by creating symbolic links with specific names in the temporary directory space before the script creates its own temporary files. This creates a window where subsequent file operations performed by the script will write data to locations controlled by the attacker rather than the intended target. The vulnerability operates under the broader category of insecure temporary file handling as defined by CWE-377, which specifically addresses the creation of insecure temporary files and directories that can be manipulated by unauthorized users.
The operational impact of CVE-2004-1179 extends beyond simple file overwrites to potentially enable more sophisticated attacks within the target system. Local users who can execute the debmake utility can leverage this vulnerability to modify critical system files, configuration data, or even inject malicious code into package creation workflows. This represents a privilege escalation vector that could allow attackers to modify package contents, compromise build environments, or establish persistent access points within development or deployment systems. The attack requires local system access but does not need elevated privileges, making it particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where developers or system administrators might inadvertently execute compromised package creation processes.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability primarily focus on implementing proper temporary file handling practices and ensuring that the debstd script creates temporary directories with appropriate permissions and security controls. The most effective immediate solution involves upgrading to debmake versions 3.6.10 or 3.7.7 and later, which contain fixes that properly secure temporary directory creation and prevent symbolic link manipulation. System administrators should also implement additional controls such as restricting the execution permissions of the debmake utility, monitoring package creation processes for unusual file operations, and ensuring that temporary directories are created with secure umask settings. Organizations should consider implementing the principle of least privilege for package creation tools and regularly audit system configurations to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced through insecure temporary file handling practices. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for execution through shell commands and represents a classic example of how insecure temporary file handling can lead to privilege escalation and arbitrary file write operations within software development environments.