CVE-2005-2960 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE
cfengine 1.6.5 and 2.1.16 allows local users to overwrite arbitrary files via a symlink attack on temporary files used by vicf.in, a different vulnerability than CVE-2005-3137.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/10/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-2960 affects cfengine versions 1.6.5 and 2.1.16, representing a significant security flaw that enables local users to manipulate arbitrary files through symlink attacks against temporary files utilized by the vicf.in component. This vulnerability operates within the broader context of insecure temporary file handling practices that have been consistently documented as critical weaknesses in system security. The issue stems from the improper management of temporary files during the execution of cfengine's file verification processes, creating opportunities for malicious local users to exploit the system's trust in file operations.
The technical flaw manifests when the vicf.in utility creates temporary files without adequate security measures to prevent symbolic link attacks. Attackers can exploit this by creating malicious symbolic links in directories where cfengine generates temporary files, effectively redirecting the utility's file operations to overwrite arbitrary files on the system. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-377 weakness category, specifically addressing insecure temporary file creation practices that allow attackers to manipulate file operations through symlink manipulation. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic race condition scenario where the timing between file creation and access creates exploitable conditions for privilege escalation and file manipulation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file overwriting, as it provides local attackers with potential pathways for privilege escalation and system compromise. When exploited, the vulnerability allows attackers to modify critical system files, configuration data, or even executables that might be processed by cfengine, potentially leading to persistent access or further system infiltration. The attack vector specifically targets the temporary file creation process within cfengine's verification mechanisms, making it particularly dangerous in environments where cfengine is used for system management and configuration automation. This vulnerability type is categorized under the ATT&CK technique T1548.001 for privilege escalation through legitimate credentials, as it enables local users to gain unauthorized access to system resources through manipulation of temporary file operations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-2960 require immediate patching of affected cfengine versions to address the insecure temporary file handling implementation. Organizations should implement proper file permission controls and ensure that temporary file creation uses secure methods such as creating files with exclusive access permissions or using secure temporary directory locations. System administrators should also consider implementing monitoring for suspicious symlink creation patterns and regularly audit temporary file operations within cfengine processes. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices in system management tools and demonstrates the necessity of following security guidelines for temporary file handling as outlined in various security standards and best practices for system hardening.