CVE-2013-0164 in openshift
Summary
by MITRE
The lockwrap function in port-proxy/bin/openshift-port-proxy-cfg in Red Hat OpenShift Origin before 1.1 allows local users to overwrite arbitrary files via a symlink attack on a temporary file with a predictable name in /tmp.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/29/2021
The vulnerability described in CVE-2013-0164 represents a critical race condition and insecure temporary file handling flaw within the Red Hat OpenShift Origin platform. This issue specifically affects the lockwrap function located in the port-proxy component at port-proxy/bin/openshift-port-proxy-cfg. The vulnerability stems from the predictable naming of temporary files within the /tmp directory, creating an exploitable window where local attackers can manipulate the system's file operations. The flaw enables malicious users to overwrite arbitrary files on the system by exploiting a symbolic link attack against these predictable temporary files, fundamentally compromising the integrity and security of the target environment.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-362, which describes a race condition vulnerability where an attacker can exploit a time-of-check to time-of-use (TOCTOU) scenario. The lockwrap function creates temporary files with predictable names in the /tmp directory without proper security measures to prevent symlink attacks. When a local user can predict the temporary file name and create a symbolic link to a target file before the legitimate process creates the temporary file, they can effectively redirect the write operations to overwrite any file they choose. This pattern represents a classic insecure temporary file creation vulnerability that has been documented extensively in security literature and commonly exploited in privilege escalation attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file overwrites, as it provides attackers with a mechanism to potentially escalate privileges and compromise the entire OpenShift Origin platform. Since the vulnerability exists within a core system component that manages port proxy configurations, successful exploitation could allow attackers to modify critical system files, inject malicious code, or disrupt normal operations. The attack vector requires local system access but does not require elevated privileges initially, making it particularly dangerous in multi-tenant environments where users might have limited access but could leverage this vulnerability to gain broader system control. This weakness directly impacts the principle of least privilege and undermines the security model of containerized platforms that rely on proper file system isolation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper temporary file handling practices that prevent symlink attacks and eliminate predictable file naming. System administrators should immediately apply the security patches released by Red Hat that address this specific vulnerability in OpenShift Origin versions prior to 1.1. The recommended approach involves using secure temporary file creation methods such as mkstemp() or similar functions that create files with unpredictable names and ensure proper file permissions. Additionally, implementing proper file system permissions and access controls for the /tmp directory can help prevent unauthorized symbolic link creation. Organizations should also consider implementing mandatory access controls and monitoring for suspicious file system activities that could indicate exploitation attempts. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1055 (Process Injection) and T1070 (Indicator Removal on Host) as attackers may use file overwrites to establish persistence or hide their activities. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation in system components that handle file operations, particularly in containerized environments where privilege escalation risks are heightened.