CVE-2011-5271 in Pacemaker
Summary
by MITRE
Pacemaker before 1.1.6 configure script creates temporary files insecurely
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/11/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-5271 affects the Pacemaker cluster management software version 1.1.5 and earlier, where the configure script exhibits insecure temporary file creation behavior that can be exploited by attackers to gain elevated privileges or execute arbitrary code. This issue specifically relates to how the script handles temporary files during the configuration process, creating potential attack vectors through privilege escalation or code injection mechanisms.
The technical flaw manifests in the insecure handling of temporary files within the Pacemaker configure script, which operates under the assumption that temporary file creation is safe without proper security controls. This insecure practice allows attackers to manipulate the temporary file creation process by creating symbolic links or replacing temporary files with malicious content before the script executes. The vulnerability stems from the script's failure to properly validate or secure temporary file locations, creating opportunities for attackers to intercept or modify temporary files during the build process. The issue can be categorized under CWE-377 as insecure temporary file creation and CWE-276 as incorrect permissions for temporary files, both of which are well-documented weaknesses in software security practices.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to include potential system compromise through code injection attacks. When the vulnerable configure script executes, it may inadvertently execute malicious code contained within manipulated temporary files, leading to unauthorized access or system control. Attackers can exploit this weakness during the installation or compilation phase of Pacemaker, particularly in environments where untrusted users have access to the build system. The vulnerability becomes more critical in multi-user environments or when the software is built with elevated privileges, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise.
Security mitigations for CVE-2011-5271 primarily involve upgrading to Pacemaker version 1.1.6 or later, which includes proper temporary file handling mechanisms that address the insecure creation practices. Organizations should also implement proper file system permissions and access controls to prevent unauthorized modification of build directories. The remediation aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers exploiting vulnerabilities for privilege escalation, and T1548.001 which addresses privilege escalation through abuse of system permissions. System administrators should conduct regular vulnerability assessments and ensure that all cluster management software components are kept up to date with security patches. Additionally, implementing proper build environment security controls and monitoring for unauthorized file modifications can help prevent exploitation of this class of vulnerability.
This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of secure temporary file handling in software development practices and highlights the need for comprehensive security testing throughout the software lifecycle. The insecure temporary file creation pattern represents a common but serious security flaw that can have far-reaching consequences when exploited in system management software. Organizations managing cluster environments should prioritize patching this vulnerability and implementing robust security controls around software build and installation processes to prevent potential exploitation by malicious actors.