CVE-2012-2093 in Gajim
Summary
by MITRE
src/common/latex.py in Gajim 0.15 allows local users to overwrite arbitrary files via a symlink attack on a temporary latex file, related to the get_tmpfile_name function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/02/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-2093 represents a critical security flaw in the Gajim instant messaging client version 0.15, specifically within the src/common/latex.py module. This issue stems from improper handling of temporary file creation processes that enables local attackers to exploit a symbolic link attack mechanism. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows an attacker with local system access to overwrite arbitrary files on the target system, potentially leading to privilege escalation or system compromise. The flaw exists in the get_tmpfile_name function which generates temporary file names without adequate security measures to prevent symlink-based attacks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the creation of temporary files during LaTeX document processing within the Gajim application. When the application processes LaTeX content, it creates temporary files to store intermediate processing results before final rendering. The get_tmpfile_name function fails to implement proper security checks that would prevent attackers from creating symbolic links in the temporary file path before the legitimate file creation occurs. This timing window allows malicious users to establish symbolic links that point to sensitive system files, making the application write data to locations other than intended. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-367, which specifically addresses Time-of-Check to Time-of-Use (TOCTOU) race conditions that can lead to privilege escalation and arbitrary file overwrites.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to systems running Gajim 0.15, particularly in environments where local user access is not properly restricted. Attackers can leverage this flaw to overwrite critical system files, configuration data, or even executables with malicious content, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The attack requires local system access but does not need elevated privileges initially, making it particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where users might have access to the application but not to system-level resources. This vulnerability can be exploited by attackers who have already gained access to a user account on the system, potentially allowing them to escalate their privileges or gain persistent access.
The mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate patching of the Gajim application to version 0.16 or later where the temporary file handling has been corrected. System administrators should also implement proper file system permissions and access controls to limit the potential damage from such attacks. Additionally, the fix should ensure that temporary files are created with appropriate security attributes including proper file permissions and ownership checks. Organizations should also consider implementing monitoring solutions to detect unusual file modification patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for execution through command-line interfaces and T1548.001 for privilege escalation through local exploitation, making it a significant concern for enterprise security postures and compliance requirements.