CVE-2005-1880 in everybuddy
Summary
by MITRE
everybuddy 0.4.3 and earlier allows local users to overwrite arbitrary files via a symlink attack on a temporary file created by a system call to wget.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/09/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2005-1880 represents a classic race condition attack vector that exploits improper temporary file handling in the everybuddy instant messaging client version 0.4.3 and earlier. This flaw specifically targets the application's use of wget system calls during file transfer operations, creating an exploitable window where local attackers can manipulate the system's temporary file creation process. The vulnerability stems from the application's failure to properly secure temporary files, allowing malicious users to establish symbolic links that redirect file operations to arbitrary locations on the filesystem.
The technical execution of this attack involves creating a symbolic link with the same name as a temporary file that the vulnerable application will later attempt to create or modify. When the wget system call executes and encounters the symlink, it follows the link and writes data to the target file specified in the symbolic link rather than the intended temporary file location. This fundamental flaw in temporary file handling creates a path traversal and file overwrite condition that can be exploited by local users to gain unauthorized access to system resources. The vulnerability operates under the broader category of insecure temporary file creation as defined by CWE-377, which specifically addresses the security risks associated with improper handling of temporary files in software applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file overwrites to potentially enable privilege escalation and system compromise. Local attackers can leverage this weakness to modify critical system files, configuration data, or even executable components that the everybuddy application might access or modify during its operation. The attack requires local system access but does not necessitate network connectivity or complex external exploitation techniques, making it particularly concerning for environments where user privileges are not strictly controlled. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1548.001 for abuse of privileges, as it enables attackers to manipulate system resources through legitimate application functionality.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability involve implementing proper temporary file handling procedures that prevent symbolic link attacks. The most effective approach includes using secure temporary file creation functions that guarantee file exclusivity and proper permissions, such as mkstemp or similar system calls that create files with restricted permissions and atomic operations. Additionally, applications should avoid creating temporary files in world-writable directories and should validate that temporary files are not symbolic links before performing operations on them. System administrators should also consider implementing mandatory access controls and file integrity monitoring to detect unauthorized file modifications. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices as outlined in the CERT Secure Coding Standards and demonstrates the critical need for proper input validation and file handling in all system interactions. Organizations should ensure that all applications performing similar functions with wget or other external command execution utilities properly validate temporary file operations and implement robust security controls to prevent such race condition exploits.