CVE-2005-2995 in bacula
Summary
by MITRE
bacula 1.36.3 and earlier allows local users to modify or read sensitive files via symlink attacks on (1) the temporary file used by autoconf/randpass when openssl is not available, or (2) the mtx.[PID] temporary file in mtx-changer.in.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/21/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-2995 affects Bacula versions 1.36.3 and earlier, presenting a significant security risk through insecure temporary file handling mechanisms. This flaw enables local attackers to exploit symbolic link attacks against critical system components, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive data or privilege escalation within the system environment. The vulnerability specifically targets two distinct temporary file locations within the Bacula backup system, making it particularly dangerous for environments where backup operations are critical.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of temporary files during the Bacula backup process, particularly when the system operates without openssl availability. When openssl is not present, the autoconf/randpass component creates temporary files that can be manipulated through symbolic link attacks, allowing attackers to redirect file operations to sensitive system locations. Additionally, the mtx-changer.in component creates mtx.PID temporary files that are also susceptible to similar symlink attacks, enabling attackers to read or modify files that should remain protected. These temporary file operations lack proper validation of symbolic link integrity, creating predictable attack vectors for local privilege escalation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, potentially enabling attackers to escalate privileges within the Bacula environment and compromise the integrity of backup operations. Attackers could modify critical backup configuration files, read sensitive authentication data, or inject malicious code into the backup process, leading to potential data breaches or system compromise. The vulnerability affects systems where Bacula is installed with local user access, making it particularly concerning in multi-user environments where backup services might be running with elevated privileges. This issue represents a classic example of insecure temporary file handling that can be exploited to bypass access controls and gain unauthorized system access.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected Bacula versions to address the insecure temporary file creation patterns. System administrators should ensure that all Bacula installations are updated to versions that properly validate temporary file creation and handle symbolic links appropriately. Additional protective measures include implementing proper file system permissions, using secure temporary file creation functions that prevent symlink attacks, and conducting regular security audits of backup system configurations. Organizations should also consider implementing monitoring for unauthorized temporary file modifications and establishing proper access controls for backup system components. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-354 weakness category related to inadequate validation of integrity checks and relates to ATT&CK technique T1059 for executing malicious code through compromised backup systems. The remediation approach should follow security best practices for temporary file handling as outlined in industry standards and security frameworks to prevent similar vulnerabilities in future implementations.