CVE-2005-0610 in FreeBSD
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple symlink vulnerabilities in portupgrade before 20041226_2 in FreeBSD allow local users to (1) overwrite arbitrary files and possibly replace packages to execute arbitrary code via pkg_fetch, (2) overwrite arbitrary files via temporary files when portupgrade upgrades a port or package, or (3) create arbitrary zero-byte files via the pkgdb.fixme temporary file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/07/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-0610 represents a critical set of symlink manipulation issues within the portupgrade utility on FreeBSD systems. This flaw affects versions prior to 20041226_2 and stems from improper handling of symbolic links during package management operations. The vulnerability operates at the core of package management workflows where symbolic links are used to create temporary files and manage package databases, creating multiple attack vectors for local privilege escalation and arbitrary code execution. The fundamental issue lies in the insecure creation and handling of temporary files and symbolic links during package installation and upgrade processes.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through three distinct attack vectors that leverage the insecure handling of symbolic links in different contexts. The first vector targets pkg_fetch functionality where attackers can manipulate symbolic links to overwrite arbitrary files on the system, potentially replacing critical package files with malicious counterparts that will execute when the package is later invoked. The second vector exploits temporary file handling during portupgrade operations, allowing attackers to overwrite arbitrary files when upgrading packages or ports, effectively enabling privilege escalation through file system manipulation. The third vector involves the creation of zero-byte files through the pkgdb.fixme temporary file mechanism, which can be used to disrupt package database integrity and potentially create additional attack surfaces.
These vulnerabilities demonstrate a classic example of insecure temporary file creation and symbolic link handling patterns that align with CWE-377 and CWE-378, which address insecure temporary file creation and improper handling of symbolic links. The attack surfaces are particularly concerning because they operate within the package management context where elevated privileges are typically required, but the vulnerability allows local users to escalate privileges or execute arbitrary code through carefully crafted symbolic link manipulations. The exploitation requires local system access but can result in significant system compromise, as attackers can replace system-critical files with malicious versions that will execute with the privileges of the package management utility.
The operational impact of CVE-2005-0610 extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass complete system compromise potential through package management manipulation. Attackers who successfully exploit these vulnerabilities can effectively take control of package installation and upgrade processes, potentially installing malicious software, modifying system binaries, or creating backdoors through package replacement techniques. The vulnerability affects the fundamental package management infrastructure of FreeBSD systems, making it particularly dangerous in environments where package management is frequently used. The attack complexity is relatively low, requiring only local access and knowledge of the specific package management workflows, but the potential for privilege escalation and code execution makes this vulnerability particularly severe.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-0610 require immediate patching of the portupgrade utility to version 20041226_2 or later, which addresses the symbolic link handling issues through proper temporary file creation and validation mechanisms. System administrators should also implement additional security controls including restricting local user access to package management utilities where possible, monitoring package installation and upgrade activities for unusual file modifications, and ensuring proper file system permissions are maintained for package management directories. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure temporary file handling practices and proper validation of symbolic links in system utilities, aligning with ATT&CK techniques that focus on privilege escalation through package management manipulation. Organizations should also consider implementing automated patch management systems to ensure timely updates of package management utilities and prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in other system components.