CVE-2012-0054 in GoLismero
Summary
by MITRE
libs/updater.py in GoLismero 0.6.3, and other versions before Git revision 2b3bb43d6867, as used in backtrack and possibly other products, allows local users to overwrite arbitrary files via a symlink attack on GoLismero-controlled files, as demonstrated using Admin/changes.dat.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/16/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-0054 affects GoLismero version 0.6.3 and earlier releases, specifically targeting the libs/updater.py component. This flaw represents a classic symlink attack scenario that exploits insecure temporary file handling practices within the software's update mechanism. The vulnerability manifests when the application creates temporary files or directories without proper security checks, allowing local attackers to manipulate the file system through symbolic link manipulation. The attack vector is particularly concerning as it enables arbitrary file overwrites, giving malicious users the ability to modify critical application components or system files.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of file creation operations within the update process. When GoLismero processes updates, it creates temporary files in predictable locations without validating whether these locations are accessible through symbolic links. The specific demonstration uses Admin/changes.dat as the target file, indicating that the vulnerability affects administrative components of the application. This type of flaw falls under CWE-377, which addresses insecure temporary file creation practices, and more specifically aligns with CWE-59, representing improper link resolution without a security check. The vulnerability creates a race condition scenario where an attacker can establish a symbolic link pointing to a target file before the legitimate application creates its own file at the same location.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-0054 is significant for systems running affected versions of GoLismero, particularly those deployed in security testing environments where elevated privileges may be present. Local attackers with access to the system can exploit this vulnerability to overwrite critical files, potentially leading to privilege escalation or complete system compromise. The attack requires local system access but can be particularly damaging in environments where GoLismero is run with elevated privileges or where it interacts with sensitive system components. This vulnerability undermines the integrity of the update mechanism and can be leveraged to inject malicious code into the application, potentially affecting the security testing capabilities of the platform. The impact extends beyond simple file overwrites as it can be used to modify configuration files, replace binaries, or manipulate security-related data.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability focus on implementing proper file handling practices and eliminating the conditions that enable symlink attacks. The most effective solution involves modifying the update process to use secure temporary file creation methods that prevent symbolic link resolution attacks. This includes using atomic file operations, proper file permissions, and ensuring that temporary files are created in secure directories with appropriate access controls. The fix should implement checks to verify that temporary files are not symbolic links and that they are created with appropriate permissions to prevent unauthorized access. Organizations should also consider implementing the principle of least privilege for applications running update mechanisms, ensuring that they operate with minimal required permissions. Additionally, regular security audits of file handling operations and implementing proper input validation can help prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in other components of the software ecosystem. This vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices as outlined in various security frameworks and standards that address file system security and temporary file handling security measures.