CVE-2013-3368 in Best Practical
Summary
by MITRE
bin/rt in Request Tracker (RT) 3.8.x before 3.8.17 and 4.0.x before 4.0.13 allows local users to overwrite arbitrary files via a symlink attack on a temporary file with predictable name.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/07/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-3368 affects Request Tracker (RT) versions 3.8.x prior to 3.8.17 and 4.0.x prior to 4.0.13, specifically within the bin/rt script. This represents a classic insecure temporary file creation flaw that enables local attackers to perform symlink attacks against predictable temporary files. The vulnerability stems from the improper handling of temporary files during script execution, where the application creates temporary files with predictable naming conventions without adequate security measures to prevent symbolic link manipulation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the bin/rt script generates temporary files using predictable names and locations, making it possible for local users to create symbolic links with the same names before the vulnerable script creates the actual temporary files. This race condition allows attackers to redirect the script's write operations to arbitrary locations on the filesystem, potentially enabling them to overwrite critical system files, configuration files, or even files owned by other users with elevated privileges. The flaw aligns with CWE-377: Insecure Temporary File and CWE-378: Creation of Temporary File With Insecure Permissions, both of which are categorized under the broader category of insecure file handling practices.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file overwriting capabilities, as it provides a potential pathway for privilege escalation and system compromise. Local attackers with minimal privileges can leverage this weakness to gain unauthorized access to sensitive system resources or manipulate critical application components. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects the core RT application functionality and can be exploited without requiring network access or complex attack vectors. Attackers can use this weakness to modify application behavior, inject malicious content into system files, or potentially establish persistent access mechanisms within the compromised environment.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-3368 should focus on implementing proper temporary file handling practices that eliminate the predictable naming patterns and race conditions inherent in the vulnerable code. System administrators should immediately upgrade to RT versions 3.8.17 or 4.0.13, which contain the necessary patches to address the insecure temporary file creation. Additional protective measures include implementing proper file permissions for temporary directories, using secure temporary file creation functions that prevent symlink attacks, and ensuring that temporary files are created with appropriate security attributes. From an operational security perspective, this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to the principle of least privilege when handling temporary file operations. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under T1059.001: Command and Scripting Interpreter, specifically focusing on local execution and privilege escalation techniques that exploit insecure file handling mechanisms. Organizations should also conduct regular security assessments to identify similar patterns in other applications and ensure that all temporary file operations follow established security guidelines and industry best practices for preventing symlink-based attacks.