CVE-2005-3349 in Gnump3d
Summary
by MITRE
GNU Gnump3d before 2.9.8 allows local users to modify or delete arbitrary files via a symlink attack on the index.lok temporary file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/11/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-3349 affects GNU Gnump3d versions prior to 2.9.8, representing a significant security flaw that enables local attackers to manipulate or remove critical system files through a carefully crafted symbolic link attack. This vulnerability specifically targets the index.lok temporary file handling mechanism within the media server software, which is commonly used for managing music library indexes and metadata. The flaw stems from inadequate file permission checks and improper handling of temporary files during the indexing process, creating a window of opportunity for malicious local users to exploit the system's file management routines.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability operates through a classic symlink attack pattern where an attacker creates a symbolic link named index.lok in a location accessible to the Gnump3d process. When the application attempts to write to this temporary file during its indexing operations, the system follows the symbolic link and writes data to the target file specified by the link rather than the intended temporary file. This allows attackers to redirect file operations to arbitrary locations within the filesystem, potentially enabling them to modify system configuration files, overwrite critical binaries, or delete essential data. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-59 as a "Improper Link Resolution" issue, where the software does not properly validate or handle symbolic links during file operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file manipulation, as it provides attackers with a persistent means of system compromise that can be leveraged for further exploitation. Local users with minimal privileges can escalate their access level by targeting critical system files or configuration data, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires no network access and can be executed from within the local system, making it difficult to detect through traditional network monitoring tools. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for executing malicious code through command-line interfaces and T1078.004 for valid accounts, as it exploits legitimate system processes to gain unauthorized access to file systems.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected systems to GNU Gnump3d versions 2.9.8 and later, which contain proper file handling mechanisms that prevent symbolic link attacks. System administrators should also implement additional security measures including restrictive file permissions on temporary directories, monitoring for unauthorized symbolic link creation, and regular audit of file system integrity. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper temporary file handling in server applications and reinforces the need for robust input validation and file access controls. Organizations should also consider implementing privilege separation techniques and ensuring that applications run with minimal necessary permissions to reduce the potential impact of such flaws. Security monitoring should include detection of suspicious file operations and symbolic link creation patterns that could indicate exploitation attempts.