CVE-2012-2666 in Google
Summary
by MITRE • 07/09/2021
golang/go in 1.0.2 fixes all.bash on shared machines. dotest() in src/pkg/debug/gosym/pclntab_test.go creates a temporary file with predicable name and executes it as shell script.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/11/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-2666 resides within the golang/go project version 1.0.2 and represents a significant security flaw in the build and testing infrastructure. This issue specifically affects the all.bash script execution environment on shared computing systems where multiple users may have access to the same resources. The problem manifests in the dotest() function located within src/pkg/debug/gosym/pclntab_test.go, which demonstrates poor security practices in temporary file handling and execution procedures. The flaw creates a predictable temporary file name that can be exploited by malicious actors to gain unauthorized code execution privileges on the system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the use of predictable naming conventions for temporary files within the testing framework. When the dotest() function generates temporary files, it employs deterministic naming patterns that allow attackers to anticipate and potentially manipulate the file creation process. This predictable behavior creates a race condition vulnerability where an attacker can place a malicious shell script with the same predetermined filename before the legitimate test process creates its own temporary file. The execution of this crafted file as a shell script represents a direct path to arbitrary code execution, as the system will execute whatever content exists at that predictable location with the privileges of the running test process.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it fundamentally undermines the security model of shared computing environments where multiple users or processes interact. Attackers leveraging this vulnerability can execute arbitrary shell commands with the permissions of the user running the go test suite, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in multi-tenant environments where the golang toolchain is installed system-wide, as it provides a consistent attack vector that can be exploited across different user accounts. The fact that this issue affects the build process rather than the final compiled binaries means that even properly tested applications can be compromised during their development lifecycle, creating a persistent security risk.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-2666 require immediate patching of the golang/go repository to version 1.0.3 or later where the vulnerability has been addressed. Organizations should implement proper temporary file handling practices that utilize random or cryptographically secure naming conventions to prevent predictable file creation. The fix typically involves using secure temporary file creation functions that generate unique filenames and ensure proper file permissions are set to prevent unauthorized access. Additionally, system administrators should review and restrict execution permissions on test directories and implement proper sandboxing techniques for automated build processes. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-377: Insecure Temporary Files and CWE-78: Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an OS Command, demonstrating how poor temporary file management can lead to privilege escalation through command injection vectors. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this under T1059.001 - Command and Scripting Interpreter: Shell Script, as it enables adversaries to execute shell commands through compromised temporary files, and T1548.001 - Abuse Elevation Control Mechanism: Bypass User Account Control, as it provides a path to elevated privileges through test execution environments. Organizations should also consider implementing runtime monitoring to detect suspicious temporary file creation patterns and shell script execution in shared environments to prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in the future.