CVE-2011-2923 in foomatic-rip Filter
Summary
by MITRE
foomatic-rip filter, all versions, used insecurely creates temporary files for storage of PostScript data by rendering the data when the debug mode was enabled. This flaw may be exploited by a local attacker to conduct symlink attacks by overwriting arbitrary files accessible with the privileges of the user running the foomatic-rip universal print filter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/23/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-2923 resides within the foomatic-rip filter component of the foomatic printing system, affecting all versions of this universal print filter. This issue represents a critical security flaw that manifests when the filter operates in debug mode, creating temporary files in an insecure manner that exposes the system to potential exploitation. The foomatic-rip filter serves as a crucial component in the printing pipeline, acting as an intermediary between print jobs and the actual printer drivers, making it a significant point of potential compromise within the print processing chain.
The technical flaw stems from the insecure creation of temporary files during PostScript data processing when debug mode is enabled. When this mode is activated, the foomatic-rip filter generates temporary files without proper security measures, creating predictable file paths that can be manipulated through symbolic link attacks. This insecure temporary file creation pattern follows the common vulnerability pattern described in CWE-377, which specifically addresses the creation of insecure temporary files and directories. The vulnerability allows a local attacker to exploit the predictable naming conventions and file creation processes to establish symbolic links that point to sensitive system files, enabling them to overwrite these files with malicious content when the print filter processes the data.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it provides local attackers with the capability to overwrite arbitrary files with the privileges of the user running the foomatic-rip filter. This typically means the attacker can gain elevated privileges if the filter runs with higher permissions, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates within the print processing pipeline, where the filter may have access to system resources and user data. Attackers can leverage this flaw to replace critical system files, modify configuration data, or inject malicious code into the print processing environment, making it a preferred target for privilege escalation attacks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-2923 focus on eliminating the insecure temporary file creation behavior and implementing proper access controls. The primary recommendation involves disabling debug mode in production environments where the vulnerability can be exploited, as this mode is typically only required for troubleshooting purposes. Additionally, system administrators should ensure that the foomatic-rip filter runs with minimal required privileges and that the temporary file creation process uses secure methods such as creating files with random names and proper permissions. This aligns with the ATT&CK framework's mitigation strategies for privilege escalation techniques, specifically addressing the use of insecure temporary file creation as a method for gaining elevated privileges. Organizations should also implement proper monitoring and logging of print filter activities to detect any suspicious file creation patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices and the principle of least privilege, as outlined in various cybersecurity frameworks including NIST SP 800-53 and ISO 27001 standards for secure system design and implementation.