CVE-2008-0665 in Website META Language
Summary
by MITRE
wml_backend/p1_ipp/ipp.src in Website META Language (WML) 2.0.11 allows local users to overwrite arbitrary files via a symlink attack on the ipp.$$.tmp temporary file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/05/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-0665 resides within the Website META Language (WML) version 2.0.11 software, specifically within the wml_backend/p1_ipp/ipp.src component. This flaw represents a classic symlink attack vulnerability that enables local users to manipulate file operations through improper temporary file handling. The issue manifests when the software creates temporary files using predictable naming conventions, specifically the ipp.$$.tmp pattern where $$ represents process identifiers. When local attackers can control or manipulate the symbolic link structure in the target directory, they can redirect the software's file creation operations to overwrite arbitrary files on the system. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of insecure temporary file creation practices that are commonly categorized as CWE-377 and CWE-378, representing weak security measures in temporary file handling. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it operates at the local privilege level, allowing users with minimal system access to potentially escalate their privileges or cause system instability through strategic file overwrites.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires understanding the temporal window during which the temporary file is created and the subsequent file operations that occur. When WML processes certain WML files, it generates temporary files using the ipp.$$.tmp naming convention, but fails to properly validate or secure these temporary files against symbolic link manipulation. Attackers can create symbolic links with the same names as the temporary files in the directory where the software creates these temporary files. When the software attempts to write to the temporary file, it inadvertently writes to the target file that the symbolic link points to, effectively overwriting arbitrary files with attacker-controlled content. This technique exploits the fundamental principle that many Unix-like systems treat symbolic links as transparent references, allowing the underlying file operations to proceed through the link without proper validation of the target file's nature. The vulnerability demonstrates a clear violation of the principle of least privilege and proper file system access controls that should be enforced during temporary file operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file overwrites and can potentially lead to more severe consequences within a compromised system. Local users who can exploit this vulnerability may be able to overwrite critical system files, configuration files, or even executable binaries, leading to potential privilege escalation or service disruption. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where attackers might target system configuration files or log files to maintain persistence or hide their activities. From an attacker's perspective, this vulnerability provides a reliable method to achieve unauthorized file modifications without requiring elevated privileges, making it a valuable primitive for more complex attack chains. The impact is further amplified by the fact that such vulnerabilities are often overlooked during security assessments because they appear benign at first glance, yet can be leveraged to create persistent backdoors or escalate privileges through careful exploitation of system file structures. The vulnerability also demonstrates a lack of proper input validation and file system access controls that are essential for maintaining system integrity and preventing unauthorized modifications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-0665 should focus on addressing the root cause of insecure temporary file creation practices within the WML software. The most effective approach involves implementing proper temporary file handling mechanisms that utilize secure file creation patterns such as creating temporary files with unique, unpredictable names and ensuring proper file permissions are set during creation. System administrators should consider implementing proper file system access controls and monitoring for suspicious symbolic link creation patterns in directories where temporary files are created. The software should be updated to versions that address this specific vulnerability, as the original WML 2.0.11 release contained multiple insecure file handling patterns that are well-documented in security literature. Additionally, implementing proper file system auditing and monitoring can help detect potential exploitation attempts by tracking symbolic link creation and file modification patterns in sensitive directories. Organizations should also consider applying the principle of least privilege by ensuring that WML processes run with minimal necessary permissions and that temporary file directories are properly secured with appropriate access controls. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 for execution through system commands and T1070 for indicator removal, highlighting the potential for attackers to use such vulnerabilities to establish persistence and evade detection within compromised systems.