CVE-2006-1280 in Cgi Session
Summary
by MITRE
CGI::Session 4.03-1 does not set proper permissions on temporary files created in (1) Driver::File and (2) Driver::db_file, which allows local users to obtain privileged information, such as session keys, by viewing the files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/06/2017
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-1280 affects CGI::Session version 4.03-1 and represents a critical security flaw in how temporary files are handled within the session management system. This issue specifically impacts two driver components: Driver::File and Driver::db_file, which are responsible for managing session data persistence. The flaw stems from improper file permission settings during the creation of temporary files, creating a significant attack vector for local adversaries seeking to escalate their privileges or access sensitive session information.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability lies in the lack of proper access control mechanisms when creating temporary session files. When CGI::Session generates temporary files for session data storage, it fails to set restrictive file permissions that would normally prevent unauthorized access. This oversight allows local users to read files that should remain protected, as the system does not enforce appropriate discretionary access controls. The temporary files created by these drivers contain session keys and other sensitive information that could be leveraged for session hijacking or privilege escalation attacks. This issue directly relates to CWE-732, which describes improper permission settings on security-relevant objects, and represents a clear violation of the principle of least privilege in system design.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as session keys and related data could enable attackers to impersonate legitimate users within web applications. Local users who can read these temporary files gain access to session identifiers that may allow them to hijack active sessions, potentially leading to unauthorized access to protected resources and user accounts. The attack surface is particularly concerning because it requires no network access or authentication, making it a low-effort, high-impact vulnerability. Attackers could exploit this flaw to gain persistent access to web applications, especially those that rely heavily on session-based authentication mechanisms. This vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078.004, which covers valid accounts and privilege escalation through session management flaws, and represents a classic case of insecure temporary file handling that could be exploited in various attack scenarios.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of proper file permission controls within the CGI::Session library. System administrators should ensure that temporary session files are created with restrictive permissions, typically limiting access to the creating process owner only. The recommended approach involves implementing proper umask settings and explicit permission controls during file creation operations, ensuring that no other users or processes can read the temporary session data. Additionally, upgrading to a patched version of CGI::Session that properly addresses this issue should be prioritized. Organizations should also consider implementing monitoring for unauthorized access attempts to session files and establish regular security audits of session management components. The fix should ensure that all temporary files created by the session drivers are properly secured with appropriate access controls, preventing unauthorized information disclosure while maintaining the functionality of the session management system.