CVE-2011-2533 in DBus
Summary
by MITRE
The configure script in D-Bus (aka DBus) 1.2.x before 1.2.28 allows local users to overwrite arbitrary files via a symlink attack on an unspecified file in /tmp/.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/09/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-2533 resides within the D-Bus message bus system, specifically affecting versions 1.2.x before 1.2.28. This represents a critical security flaw that enables local attackers to manipulate the system through a carefully crafted symlink attack. The issue manifests in the configure script execution process where the system fails to properly validate temporary file creation, creating an opportunity for privilege escalation and arbitrary file overwrite operations.
The technical flaw stems from insufficient input validation and improper temporary file handling within the D-Bus configure script. When the script executes, it creates temporary files in the /tmp/ directory without adequate security checks to prevent symlink attacks. An attacker can exploit this by creating malicious symbolic links in the /tmp/ directory before the configure script runs, causing the script to write data to files that the attacker controls rather than the intended target. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-377, which specifically addresses insecure temporary file creation practices, and represents a classic example of a race condition vulnerability where timing and file system permissions are exploited.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file overwrites, as it provides attackers with potential paths to escalate privileges and compromise system integrity. Since D-Bus is a fundamental system component that facilitates inter-process communication across various applications, an attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could gain elevated privileges or manipulate critical system communications. The attack vector requires local system access but can potentially lead to broader system compromise, especially in environments where D-Bus is used with elevated privileges or where multiple applications depend on the message bus for critical operations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-2533 should focus on immediate patch application to D-Bus version 1.2.28 or later, which includes proper temporary file handling and symlink validation. System administrators should also implement additional security measures such as setting appropriate permissions on the /tmp/ directory, using secure temporary file creation methods that prevent symbolic link attacks, and monitoring for suspicious file creation patterns. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices as outlined in the OWASP Secure Coding Practices, particularly regarding temporary file handling and race condition prevention. Organizations should also consider implementing the ATT&CK framework's mitigation strategies for privilege escalation techniques, as this vulnerability could be leveraged as part of broader attack chains targeting system integrity and access controls.