CVE-2005-0365 in KDE
Summary
by MITRE
The dcopidlng script in KDE 3.2.x and 3.3.x creates temporary files with predictable filenames, which allows local users to overwrite arbitrary files via a symlink attack.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/01/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-0365 resides within the dcopidlng script component of KDE desktop environment versions 3.2.x and 3.3.x. This issue represents a classic temporary file creation flaw that enables local privilege escalation through symlink attacks. The dcopidlng script, which is part of the KDE development tools, generates temporary files during its execution process using predictable naming conventions that make them susceptible to exploitation. This vulnerability operates under the broader category of insecure temporary file handling, a pattern commonly categorized under CWE-377 and CWE-378 within the Common Weakness Enumeration framework.
The technical mechanism behind this vulnerability involves the script's creation of temporary files with known, predictable names that can be manipulated by local attackers. When the dcopidlng script executes, it generates temporary files in a manner that does not properly randomize or secure the naming scheme, allowing malicious users to create symbolic links with the same names in the target directory. When the script subsequently attempts to write to these predictable temporary files, it inadvertently writes to the attacker-controlled symbolic link, which then points to arbitrary files on the system. This creates a race condition scenario where the attacker can control the content of files that the script would normally modify, potentially leading to unauthorized file modifications or privilege escalation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file overwrites, as it can be leveraged for more sophisticated attacks within the KDE environment. Attackers can exploit this weakness to modify critical system files, configuration data, or even executable components that the script might interact with during its operation. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in multi-user environments where local users might attempt to escalate privileges or compromise other users' data. From an attack framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK methodology under the privilege escalation and persistence domains, specifically targeting the use of insecure temporary file creation as a means of gaining elevated system access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-0365 require immediate patching of affected KDE installations to versions that properly implement secure temporary file creation practices. System administrators should ensure that all KDE components are updated to versions that either randomize temporary file names or use secure file creation methods such as the mkstemp() system call. Additionally, implementing proper file system permissions and access controls can help reduce the impact of such vulnerabilities. The remediation process should include comprehensive system auditing to identify any potential exploitation attempts and verification that all temporary file operations within the KDE environment follow secure coding practices. Organizations should also consider implementing monitoring solutions that can detect suspicious symlink creation patterns or unauthorized file modification activities in directories where temporary files are commonly created.