CVE-2004-1382 in C Library
Summary
by MITRE
The glibcbug script in glibc 2.3.4 and earlier allows local users to overwrite arbitrary files via a symlink attack on temporary files, a different vulnerability than CVE-2004-0968.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/01/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-1382 represents a critical file system security flaw within the GNU C Library (glibc) version 2.3.4 and earlier releases. This issue specifically affects the glibcbug script component which is part of the broader glibc suite used extensively across Unix-like operating systems including various Linux distributions. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of temporary files during script execution, creating an exploitable race condition that enables local attackers to manipulate the file system in unintended ways. The flaw is particularly concerning because it allows attackers to overwrite arbitrary files on the system, potentially leading to privilege escalation or system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a symlink attack against temporary files created by the glibcbug script. When the script executes, it creates temporary files in predictable locations without proper security checks. A local attacker can exploit this by creating symbolic links in the expected temporary file locations before the script runs. This race condition allows the attacker to control what files the script attempts to modify, effectively redirecting file operations to target sensitive system files or configuration files. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-367 which specifically addresses Time-of-Check to Time-of-Use (TOCTOU) flaws, where the system state changes between verification and actual use of resources. The attack vector leverages the fundamental principle that file operations are not atomic and can be manipulated through symbolic link manipulation.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to system security and integrity. Local attackers with basic user privileges can leverage this flaw to overwrite critical system files, potentially leading to privilege escalation or complete system compromise. The attack requires minimal privileges and can be executed without special permissions, making it particularly dangerous in multi-user environments. The vulnerability affects systems where the glibcbug script is executed, which typically occurs during system maintenance or debugging operations. Attackers can exploit this to overwrite configuration files, binary executables, or other critical system resources, potentially creating backdoors or disabling system functionality. This flaw directly violates the principle of least privilege and can enable attackers to gain unauthorized access to system resources that should remain protected.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-1382 focus primarily on upgrading to patched versions of glibc where the temporary file handling has been corrected to prevent symbolic link attacks. System administrators should immediately update their glibc installations to versions that address this vulnerability, typically glibc 2.3.5 or later. Additional protective measures include implementing proper file system permissions for temporary directories, using secure temporary file creation functions that prevent symbolic link manipulation, and monitoring for suspicious file operations. The mitigation approach aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 which covers script execution and emphasizes the importance of validating file system operations in scripts. Organizations should also consider implementing file integrity monitoring solutions to detect unauthorized file modifications and establish secure coding practices for temporary file handling in all system components. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper temporary file management and highlights the need for thorough security testing of system utilities that handle file operations.