CVE-2011-2924 in foomatic-rip Filter
Summary
by MITRE
foomatic-rip filter v4.0.12 and prior 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.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/23/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-2924 resides within the foomatic-rip universal print filter version 4.0.12 and earlier, representing a critical security flaw that stems from improper handling of temporary file creation during PostScript data processing. This issue specifically manifests when the debug mode is enabled, creating a dangerous condition where temporary files are generated insecurely, potentially allowing malicious actors to exploit the system through symlink attacks.
The technical flaw operates through a race condition vulnerability where the foomatic-rip filter creates temporary files without proper security measures during debug operations. When debug mode is activated, the filter renders PostScript data and stores it in temporary files, but these files are created with predictable names and insufficient permissions. This insecure temporary file creation pattern enables local attackers to establish symbolic links in the same directory where the temporary files are expected to be created, effectively redirecting the data to arbitrary locations on the filesystem.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it allows attackers to overwrite files accessible with the privileges of the user running the foomatic-rip filter. This creates a significant risk for systems where print filters operate with elevated privileges, potentially enabling attackers to modify critical system files, configuration data, or even inject malicious code into the print processing pipeline. The vulnerability specifically targets local attackers who already have access to the system, making it particularly dangerous in environments where multiple users share the same system resources.
This flaw aligns with CWE-377, which addresses insecure temporary file creation, and demonstrates characteristics consistent with ATT&CK technique T1548.001 for privilege escalation through the exploitation of insecure file permissions. The vulnerability represents a classic example of insecure temporary file handling that can be leveraged for file overwrite attacks and symlink manipulation. Organizations using foomatic-rip filters in production environments should consider the broader implications of this vulnerability, particularly in multi-user systems where the print filter may run with elevated privileges. The impact is further amplified when considering that many print systems operate with broader access controls than typical user applications, potentially allowing attackers to compromise entire print server configurations.
Mitigation strategies should focus on disabling debug mode in production environments, implementing proper temporary file handling with secure permissions, and ensuring that the foomatic-rip filter runs with the minimal required privileges. System administrators should also consider implementing file system monitoring to detect suspicious symlink creation patterns and ensure that all print filter updates are applied to eliminate this vulnerability from affected systems.