CVE-2012-6607 in Augeas
Summary
by MITRE
The transform_save function in transform.c in Augeas before 1.0.0 allows local users to overwrite arbitrary files and obtain sensitive information via a symlink attack on a .augsave file in a backup save action, a different vector than CVE-2012-0786.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/10/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-6607 affects the Augeas configuration management tool version 0.10.0 and earlier, representing a critical security flaw in the file handling mechanism of this widely-used system configuration library. This issue specifically targets the transform_save function within the transform.c source file, which is responsible for managing backup operations during configuration changes. The vulnerability arises from insufficient validation of file paths during backup processes, creating a window for malicious exploitation through symbolic link manipulation attacks.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when Augeas performs backup operations on configuration files, creating temporary .augsave files in the filesystem. During these operations, the software does not properly validate whether the target backup file path is a symbolic link, allowing local attackers to manipulate the filesystem and redirect the backup process to overwrite arbitrary files or access sensitive data. This creates a classic symlink attack scenario where an attacker can place a symbolic link with the same name as the expected backup file, causing the system to write data to an unintended location. The vulnerability differs from CVE-2012-0786 in that it operates through a distinct attack vector involving backup file handling rather than the primary vulnerability path.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file overwrites, as it can potentially lead to privilege escalation and information disclosure attacks. Local users with access to the system can leverage this flaw to modify critical system configuration files, potentially compromising system integrity and availability. The attack requires minimal privileges and can be executed through standard user accounts, making it particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where system administrators rely on Augeas for configuration management. This vulnerability undermines the security model of configuration management tools by allowing unauthorized modification of system files that should be protected from casual manipulation.
The security implications of CVE-2012-6607 align with CWE-376, which addresses the improper handling of symbolic links in file operations, and can be mapped to ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers the exploitation of privilege escalation vulnerabilities. Organizations using Augeas for system configuration management face significant risk as this vulnerability can be exploited to modify critical system files, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability demonstrates a fundamental flaw in the software's file system interaction model, where proper path validation and file handling procedures were not adequately implemented. System administrators should immediately update to Augeas version 1.0.0 or later, which addresses this vulnerability through enhanced file path validation and proper symlink handling mechanisms. Additionally, organizations should implement monitoring for suspicious file system activities and consider restricting user access to configuration management tools to minimize the potential impact of such attacks.