CVE-2013-2217 in Red Hat
Summary
by MITRE
cache.py in Suds 0.4, when tempdir is set to None, allows local users to redirect SOAP queries and possibly have other unspecified impact via a symlink attack on a cache file with a predictable name in /tmp/suds/.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/27/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-2217 affects the Suds web service client library version 0.4, specifically within its cache.py module. This issue arises when the temporary directory parameter tempdir is explicitly set to None, creating a dangerous condition that enables local attackers to manipulate the caching mechanism through symbolic link attacks. The vulnerability stems from the library's improper handling of temporary file creation in the /tmp/suds/ directory, where cache files are generated with predictable naming conventions, making them susceptible to exploitation.
The technical flaw manifests in the way Suds handles temporary file creation when no explicit temporary directory is specified. When tempdir is set to None, the library defaults to using the system's temporary directory, typically /tmp, and creates cache files in a subdirectory named suds. The predictable naming scheme of these cache files, combined with the lack of proper file access controls and atomic file creation mechanisms, allows attackers to establish symbolic links in the target directory before the legitimate cache file is created. This race condition enables attackers to redirect SOAP queries to arbitrary locations, potentially causing the application to process malicious data or execute unintended operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data redirection, as it can lead to various security consequences including unauthorized data access, injection of malicious content into SOAP responses, and potential privilege escalation depending on the application's execution context. Attackers can leverage this weakness to intercept or modify web service communications, potentially compromising sensitive information exchanged through SOAP protocols. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in environments where Suds is used to communicate with external services, as it could enable man-in-the-middle attacks or data manipulation scenarios that undermine the integrity of web service interactions.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-377, which addresses insecure temporary file creation practices, and CWE-367, which covers the dangerous use of symbolic links. The attack vector follows patterns consistent with the ATT&CK framework's technique T1059 for execution through command and scripting interpreters, as well as T1566 for social engineering via manipulation of files and directories. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic race condition issue where the timing of file creation operations creates exploitable conditions. Organizations using Suds 0.4 should immediately implement mitigations including upgrading to a patched version of the library, implementing proper file access controls, and ensuring that temporary directories are properly configured with restricted permissions to prevent symlink attacks. Additionally, security monitoring should be enhanced to detect suspicious file creation patterns in temporary directories that could indicate exploitation attempts.