CVE-2010-0118 in Bournal
Summary
by MITRE
Bournal before 1.4.1 allows local users to overwrite arbitrary files via a symlink attack on unspecified temporary files associated with a --hack_the_gibson update check.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/01/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-0118 affects Bournal versions prior to 1.4.1 and represents a classic symlink attack scenario that exploits improper handling of temporary files during update operations. This flaw enables local attackers to manipulate the system by creating symbolic links that redirect the application's file operations to arbitrary locations, potentially allowing privilege escalation or data corruption. The vulnerability specifically manifests during the --hack_the_gibson update check functionality, which suggests this was an experimental or proprietary update mechanism within the application.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the application's failure to properly validate temporary file paths when creating or accessing files during the update process. Attackers can exploit this by establishing symbolic links with predictable names in directories where the application creates temporary files, causing the update mechanism to write data to unintended locations. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-377 weakness category, specifically CWE-377: Insecure Temporary File, which is classified as a high-severity issue in the Common Weakness Enumeration taxonomy. The flaw demonstrates poor security practices in temporary file handling and inadequate input validation during file system operations.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-0118 extends beyond simple file overwrites to potentially enable more sophisticated attacks depending on the system configuration and privileges of the target user. Local attackers with minimal privileges can leverage this vulnerability to modify system files, inject malicious code into update processes, or manipulate application behavior by overwriting critical files with malicious content. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it operates within the context of a legitimate update process, making it harder to detect through traditional security monitoring. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1074.001 for Data Staged, as attackers can manipulate temporary files to achieve their objectives through legitimate system processes.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected Bournal installations to version 1.4.1 or later, which should address the improper temporary file handling. System administrators should implement proper file permission controls and ensure that temporary directories used by applications have restricted write permissions for non-privileged users. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by running applications with minimal required permissions, and the use of secure temporary file creation functions should be implemented to prevent symlink attacks. Additionally, monitoring for suspicious file creation patterns and implementing file integrity checking mechanisms can help detect exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies to prevent unauthorized modifications to critical system components and ensure that all update mechanisms properly validate file paths before operation.