CVE-2007-4460 in id3lib
Summary
by MITRE
The RenderV2ToFile function in tag_file.cpp in id3lib (aka libid3) 3.8.3 allows local users to overwrite arbitrary files via a symlink attack on a temporary file whose name is constructed from the name of a file being tagged.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/27/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-4460 affects id3lib version 3.8.3, a library used for manipulating id3 tags in audio files. This flaw resides in the RenderV2ToFile function within the tag_file.cpp source file, creating a critical security risk through improper temporary file handling. The vulnerability manifests when the library processes audio files that require tag modifications, specifically exploiting the way temporary files are created and managed during the tagging process.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the library's construction of temporary file names using the original file name being processed. When id3lib encounters an audio file that needs tag updates, it creates a temporary file with a predictable naming scheme based on the input file's name. Local attackers can exploit this behavior by creating symbolic links with specific names that match the expected temporary file pattern, thereby tricking the library into writing data to arbitrary locations on the filesystem. This type of attack falls under the category of temporary file race conditions and symlink attacks, which are commonly classified under CWE-377 and CWE-378.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file overwrites, as it allows attackers to potentially modify critical system files, configuration data, or even executable components if the targeted file paths align with system directories. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the file system level without requiring special privileges beyond those needed to execute the vulnerable library. Attackers can leverage this weakness to escalate their privileges or compromise the integrity of audio processing workflows in applications that depend on id3lib for tag management.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability involve immediate patching of affected id3lib versions, as well as implementing proper temporary file handling mechanisms that avoid predictable naming schemes. Organizations should ensure that all applications using id3lib are updated to versions that address this flaw, which typically involves implementing secure temporary file creation methods such as using unique identifiers or creating temporary files in secure directories with appropriate permissions. This vulnerability also highlights the importance of following secure coding practices as outlined in the OWASP Secure Coding Guidelines and aligns with ATT&CK techniques related to privilege escalation through file system manipulation. The recommended approach includes using atomic operations for temporary file creation and implementing proper access controls to prevent symlink attacks, which can be achieved through careful application design and adherence to security best practices.