CVE-2005-2211 in backup manager
Summary
by MITRE
backup manager 0.5.8a creates temporary files insecurely which allows local users to conduct unauthorized file operations when a user is burning a cdr.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/25/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-2211 affects backup manager version 0.5.8a and represents a significant security flaw in how temporary files are handled during CD burning operations. This issue stems from insecure temporary file creation practices that create exploitable conditions for local attackers to perform unauthorized file operations. The vulnerability specifically manifests when a user engages in the process of burning a cd, making it particularly concerning for environments where multiple users share the same system or where privileged access might be available.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the improper handling of temporary files within the backup manager application. When the software creates temporary files during the cd burning process, it does not implement secure methods for file creation that would prevent attackers from predicting or manipulating these temporary file paths. This insecure practice allows local users to potentially create symbolic links or manipulate temporary files in ways that could lead to privilege escalation or unauthorized access to system resources. The flaw aligns with common insecure temporary file creation patterns that are categorized under CWE-377, which specifically addresses insecure temporary file creation practices in software applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, as it provides local attackers with potential pathways to escalate privileges or execute arbitrary code within the system context. When users perform cd burning operations, the backup manager creates temporary files that may be used for intermediate processing steps. If an attacker can manipulate these temporary files or predict their locations, they could potentially overwrite critical system files, inject malicious code, or gain elevated privileges through the application's execution context. This vulnerability particularly affects systems where the backup manager application runs with elevated privileges or where users have the ability to initiate cd burning operations.
This security weakness demonstrates the importance of proper file handling practices and adheres to principles outlined in the ATT&CK framework under the technique of privilege escalation through file manipulation. The vulnerability creates opportunities for attackers to exploit the trust relationship between the application and its temporary file handling mechanisms. Organizations should consider implementing mitigations such as ensuring proper permissions on temporary file directories, using secure temporary file creation functions, and validating file paths before processing. The issue also highlights the need for secure coding practices that follow industry standards for temporary file management and proper privilege separation during system operations.
The vulnerability represents a classic example of how seemingly minor implementation flaws can create significant security risks, particularly in applications that handle sensitive system operations like cd burning and backup management. The insecure temporary file creation pattern commonly found in legacy applications demonstrates the importance of security reviews and proper input validation throughout the software development lifecycle. System administrators should ensure that affected versions of backup manager are updated or patched to address this vulnerability, as the potential for privilege escalation or unauthorized system access makes this issue particularly dangerous in multi-user environments.