CVE-2008-5369 in noip2
Summary
by MITRE
noip2 in noip2 2.1.7 allows local users to overwrite arbitrary files via a symlink attack on the /tmp/noip2 temporary file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/06/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-5369 affects the noip2 client software version 2.1.7, specifically targeting the local privilege escalation and file system manipulation capabilities within the application's temporary file handling mechanism. This issue represents a classic symlink attack vector that exploits improper temporary file creation practices, allowing local attackers to manipulate the system's file structure through carefully crafted symbolic link operations. The vulnerability exists in the application's handling of the /tmp/noip2 temporary file location, which is susceptible to race conditions and insecure file creation patterns.
The technical flaw stems from the application's failure to properly validate or secure temporary file creation processes, creating opportunities for malicious users to establish symbolic links that point to sensitive system files or directories. When noip2 creates its temporary file at /tmp/noip2, it does not perform adequate checks to ensure that the target location is not already occupied by a symbolic link. This insecure practice enables attackers to pre-create symbolic links that redirect the application's file operations to arbitrary locations on the filesystem, potentially allowing overwrites of critical system files or configuration data. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-377 as insecure temporary file creation, specifically manifesting as a race condition in temporary file handling where the timing between file creation and access can be exploited by adversaries.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file overwrites, as it provides local attackers with a mechanism to potentially escalate privileges or disrupt system operations. An attacker who can execute code on the target system can leverage this vulnerability to modify critical files such as configuration settings, system binaries, or authentication data, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it requires minimal privileges to exploit and can be combined with other techniques to achieve more significant system compromise. Attackers can use this vector to overwrite system files, inject malicious code into legitimate processes, or manipulate application behavior through configuration file corruption, making it a valuable tool in the attacker's arsenal for persistent system infiltration.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-5369 should focus on implementing proper temporary file handling practices and privilege separation mechanisms. System administrators should ensure that noip2 is run with minimal required privileges and that the application is configured to use secure temporary file locations that are not accessible to unprivileged users. The recommended approach involves using secure file creation functions that check for existing symbolic links and ensure atomic file creation processes. Additionally, implementing proper file permissions and ownership controls on temporary directories can prevent unauthorized access and manipulation. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under privilege escalation techniques, specifically targeting the T1068 privilege escalation sub-technique related to local privilege escalation through insecure file permissions. Organizations should also consider implementing monitoring solutions that detect suspicious file system activities, particularly around temporary file creation and modification patterns, to identify potential exploitation attempts. Regular security updates and patch management procedures should be enforced to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities in third-party applications.