CVE-2008-5007 in lazarus
Summary
by MITRE
create_lazarus_export_tgz.sh in lazarus 0.9.24 allows local users to overwrite or delete arbitrary files via a symlink attack on a (1) /tmp/lazarus.tgz temporary file or a (2) /tmp/lazarus temporary directory.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/14/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-5007 affects the lazarus development environment version 0.9.24 and represents a critical security flaw in the create_lazarus_export_tgz.sh script. This issue stems from improper handling of temporary files during the export process, creating opportunities for local privilege escalation and arbitrary file manipulation. The vulnerability manifests through two distinct attack vectors involving temporary file handling in the /tmp directory, which serves as a common target for symlink-based attacks due to its predictable location and typical permissions.
The technical flaw resides in the script's failure to properly validate or secure temporary file creation processes. When the create_lazarus_export_tgz.sh script executes, it creates temporary files and directories in the /tmp filesystem without implementing proper atomic file creation mechanisms or secure temporary file handling practices. Attackers can exploit this by creating symbolic links that point to sensitive system files or directories, allowing them to overwrite or delete arbitrary files with the privileges of the user running the script. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-377, which addresses insecure temporary file handling, and CWE-378, which covers the creation of temporary files with insecure permissions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file manipulation, as it enables attackers to potentially compromise the entire development environment or underlying system. An attacker with local access could leverage this vulnerability to overwrite critical system files, delete important development artifacts, or even inject malicious code into the temporary files that would later be processed by the lazarus application. The attack requires local system access but can be particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where developers may have elevated privileges. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices for temporary file handling and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for executing malicious code through compromised development tools.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability involve implementing proper temporary file handling procedures including atomic file creation, using secure temporary directory locations with restricted permissions, and ensuring that symbolic link checks are performed before file operations. The recommended approach includes modifying the script to use mktemp or similar secure temporary file creation utilities, implementing proper file permission controls, and conducting thorough input validation. Additionally, system administrators should consider restricting write access to the /tmp directory and implementing monitoring for suspicious symbolic link creation activities. This vulnerability underscores the critical need for developers to follow secure coding guidelines and demonstrates how seemingly minor implementation flaws in temporary file handling can lead to significant security consequences. Organizations should also implement regular security audits of development tools and scripts to identify similar insecure temporary file handling practices that could be exploited by malicious actors.