CVE-2004-1276 in IglooFTP
Summary
by MITRE
iglooftp 0.6.1 when recursively uploading a directory allows local users to overwrite the files that are being uploaded by creating temporary files with names generated by the tmpnam function before the files are opened by iglooftp.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/01/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-1276 affects iglooftp version 0.6.1 and represents a classic race condition flaw in temporary file handling during recursive directory uploads. This issue stems from the application's reliance on the tmpnam function for generating temporary file names, which creates a window of opportunity for local attackers to exploit the system. The vulnerability occurs when iglooftp processes directory structures recursively, creating temporary files that are subsequently overwritten by malicious actors who preemptively create files with the same names that the application will generate.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the use of the tmpnam function, which is inherently problematic due to its predictable nature and the time gap between when a temporary file name is generated and when the file is actually opened. This timing gap allows a local attacker to create a file with the same name before iglooftp attempts to open it, effectively enabling the attacker to replace the intended temporary file with their own malicious content. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to overwrite files that are being uploaded during the recursive process, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or data corruption.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability represents a significant security risk for systems running iglooftp 0.6.1, especially in environments where local users might have access to the system. The attack vector is relatively straightforward, requiring only local access to create the preemptive temporary files, making it accessible to both malicious insiders and attackers who have gained local system access. The potential consequences include unauthorized modification of uploaded files, execution of malicious code through compromised temporary files, and possible data integrity violations during the upload process.
The vulnerability maps directly to CWE-362, which describes a race condition flaw in temporary file handling, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter. The use of tmpnam function specifically violates security best practices outlined in various secure coding guidelines, as it creates predictable temporary file names that can be exploited by attackers. Organizations should implement mitigations including the use of secure temporary file creation functions such as mkstemp or mkdtemp, which provide atomic creation of temporary files with proper permissions. Additionally, the application should be updated to a newer version that addresses this race condition vulnerability, as version 0.6.1 is outdated and no longer supported. System administrators should also consider implementing file system permissions and access controls to limit local user privileges, reducing the attack surface for such local exploitation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the importance of proper temporary file management in security-critical applications and highlights the need for comprehensive security testing of file handling operations.