CVE-2008-5380 in gpsdrive
Summary
by MITRE
gpsdrive (aka gpsdrive-scripts) 2.09 allows local users to overwrite arbitrary files via a symlink attack on an (a) /tmp/geo#####, a (b) /tmp/geocaching.loc, a (c) /tmp/geo#####.*, or a (d) /tmp/geo.* temporary file, related to the (1) geo-code and (2) geo-nearest scripts, different vectors than CVE-2008-4959.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/26/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-5380 affects gpsdrive-scripts version 2.09, a collection of scripts used for GPS navigation and geocaching applications. This issue represents a classic symlink attack vulnerability that allows local attackers to manipulate temporary files created by the gpsdrive application during its operation. The vulnerability specifically targets four distinct temporary file locations including /tmp/geo#####, /tmp/geocaching.loc, /tmp/geo#####., and /tmp/geo. which are utilized by the geo-code and geo-nearest scripts within the gpsdrive framework. The flaw stems from the application's failure to properly validate or secure temporary file creation processes, creating opportunities for privilege escalation and arbitrary file manipulation.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through symbolic link manipulation attacks where a local user can create malicious symbolic links in the targeted temporary file locations before the gpsdrive scripts attempt to access them. When the geo-code and geo-nearest scripts execute and process these temporary files, they follow the symbolic links and write data to unintended destinations, potentially allowing attackers to overwrite critical system files or inject malicious content into files owned by other users or system processes. This type of vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-377, which addresses insecure temporary file handling practices, and more specifically aligns with CWE-378, which deals with creation of temporary files with insecure permissions. The attack vector demonstrates characteristics consistent with the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for executing commands through script interpreters, where local privilege escalation can be achieved through manipulation of temporary file locations.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-5380 extends beyond simple file overwrites as it can enable attackers to escalate privileges and potentially compromise the entire system. Since gpsdrive applications often run with elevated permissions or are used in environments where system integrity is critical, the ability to manipulate temporary files opens pathways for persistent access and data exfiltration. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the file system level without requiring network access, making it difficult to detect through traditional network monitoring approaches. Attackers can leverage this flaw to modify configuration files, inject malicious code into system processes, or gain unauthorized access to sensitive data stored in geocaching and GPS-related applications. The fact that this vulnerability operates through multiple temporary file patterns increases the attack surface and makes detection more challenging for system administrators.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-5380 should focus on addressing the root cause of insecure temporary file handling within the gpsdrive-scripts application. System administrators should immediately update to patched versions of gpsdrive-scripts where available, as the vulnerability was likely addressed in subsequent releases through proper temporary file creation methods and secure file handling practices. The recommended approach includes implementing proper file permissions for temporary directories, using secure temporary file creation functions that prevent symbolic link attacks, and ensuring that all temporary files are created with appropriate ownership and access controls. Additionally, system monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual file creation patterns in /tmp directories, and privilege separation should be implemented to reduce the impact of potential exploitation. Organizations should also consider implementing mandatory access controls and file integrity monitoring solutions to detect unauthorized modifications to critical system files that could result from this vulnerability. The remediation process should include thorough auditing of all temporary file usage within the gpsdrive application and related scripts to identify and eliminate similar insecure practices that could lead to additional vulnerabilities.