CVE-2008-4945 in cdrw-taper
Summary
by MITRE
amlabel-cdrw in cdrw-taper 0.4 might allow local users to overwrite arbitrary files via a symlink attack involving a /tmp/amlabel-cdrw.##### temporary directory.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/13/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-4945 affects the cdrw-taper 0.4 software package, specifically within the amlabel-cdrw component. This issue represents a classic symlink attack scenario that exploits insecure temporary file handling practices. The vulnerability occurs when the application creates temporary files in the /tmp directory without proper security measures to prevent symbolic link manipulation by unauthorized users. The flaw stems from the application's failure to validate or properly secure temporary file creation processes, creating an opportunity for local attackers to escalate privileges or execute arbitrary code through file overwrite operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the creation of a symbolic link in the /tmp directory that points to a target file the attacker wishes to overwrite. When the vulnerable application executes and attempts to write to /tmp/amlabel-cdrw, it follows the symbolic link and writes data to the targeted file instead of the intended temporary location. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-377 which specifically addresses insecure temporary file handling, and more broadly under CWE-22 which covers improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory. The attack vector relies on the predictable nature of temporary file names and the lack of proper file access controls during temporary file creation.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability enables local users to potentially overwrite critical system files, configuration files, or files owned by other users with malicious content. The severity of the impact depends on the privileges of the user executing the vulnerable application and the target files that can be overwritten through the symlink attack. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to modify system binaries, configuration files, or sensitive data files, potentially leading to privilege escalation or system compromise. The vulnerability affects systems where cdrw-taper is installed and executed with elevated privileges, making it particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where different users might have varying levels of access to the system.
The mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-4945 should focus on implementing proper temporary file handling security measures. Organizations should ensure that temporary files are created with secure permissions and are not accessible to unauthorized users. The application should utilize secure temporary file creation functions that prevent symbolic link attacks, such as creating temporary files in directories with restricted permissions or using atomic file creation methods. Additionally, system administrators should audit installations of cdrw-taper and ensure that the software is updated to versions that address this specific vulnerability. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 which covers command and script interpreters, and T1548 which covers abuse of privileges, as attackers may leverage such vulnerabilities to gain elevated system access. The remediation process should also include implementing proper file system permissions and monitoring for suspicious file creation patterns in temporary directories.