CVE-2008-4972 in mgt
Summary
by MITRE
mailgo in mgt 2.31 allows local users to overwrite arbitrary files via a symlink attack on a /tmp/mailgo##### temporary file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/14/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2008-4972 affects the mailgo component within the mgt 2.31 software suite, presenting a significant local privilege escalation risk through a symbolic link attack against temporary file handling. This flaw exists in the way the application manages temporary files during its operation, specifically targeting the /tmp/mailgo##### naming convention used for temporary file creation. The issue arises from insufficient validation of temporary file paths and inadequate protection mechanisms that allow local attackers to manipulate the file system through symlink manipulation techniques.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the insecure handling of temporary files in a predictable location with a fixed naming pattern. When mailgo creates temporary files in the /tmp directory, it does not properly verify whether the target file path is legitimate or if it has been replaced with a symbolic link by an attacker. This creates a race condition scenario where an attacker can establish a symbolic link with the same name as the temporary file, causing the application to write data to an unintended location. The CWE-377 weakness classification applies here as the application creates temporary files with insecure permissions and predictable names, making them susceptible to manipulation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file overwriting capabilities, as it enables local users to potentially modify critical system files or inject malicious content into the application's execution environment. Attackers can leverage this flaw to escalate privileges by overwriting configuration files, binary executables, or other sensitive system resources that the mailgo application might access or modify. This represents a classic privilege escalation vector that aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers privilege escalation through local exploitation of application vulnerabilities. The vulnerability affects any local user who can execute the mailgo application, making it particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where system integrity is paramount.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of proper temporary file handling practices including the use of secure temporary file creation functions that prevent symbolic link attacks, such as mkstemp or similar secure APIs that ensure atomic creation of temporary files with appropriate permissions. System administrators should also implement proper file system permissions and access controls on the /tmp directory, ensuring that temporary files are created with restrictive permissions that prevent unauthorized modification. Additionally, the application should be updated to use non-predictable temporary file names and implement proper validation of file paths before any file operations occur. The remediation approach aligns with security best practices outlined in the OWASP Secure Coding Guidelines and should be considered a critical patch for any system running affected versions of the mgt software suite.