CVE-2013-4157 in Storage Server
Summary
by MITRE
Red Hat Storage 2.0 allows local users to overwrite arbitrary files via a symlink attack on the (1) e, (2) local-bricks.list, (3) bricks.err, or (4) limits.conf files in /tmp.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/08/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-4157 represents a critical local privilege escalation and file overwriting flaw within Red Hat Storage 2.0 systems. This issue stems from improper handling of temporary files during the storage management process, creating a symlink attack vector that allows local authenticated users to manipulate critical system files. The vulnerability specifically targets four designated files within the /tmp directory structure, namely e, local-bricks.list, bricks.err, and limits.conf, all of which are susceptible to symbolic link manipulation by malicious local users.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the predictable naming patterns and insecure temporary file creation mechanisms within the Red Hat Storage 2.0 software. When the application processes storage operations, it creates temporary files in the /tmp directory without proper validation of symbolic link existence or ownership verification. This insecure practice enables attackers to establish symbolic links pointing to critical system files before the legitimate application creates its own temporary files, effectively allowing the attacker to overwrite arbitrary files with malicious content. The flaw operates under CWE-377: Insecure Temporary File creation, which specifically addresses the risks associated with creating temporary files without adequate security measures.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file overwriting capabilities to encompass potential privilege escalation and system compromise. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability can manipulate configuration files, log files, or even system binaries that are processed by the storage management components, potentially leading to persistent access or complete system control. The attack requires local authentication but does not necessitate elevated privileges, making it particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where users may have legitimate access to storage management utilities. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for execution through scriptlets and T1548.001 for privilege escalation through local manipulation of system files.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-4157 should focus on immediate patching of the Red Hat Storage 2.0 software to address the insecure temporary file handling mechanisms. Organizations should implement proper file permission controls and validate the existence of temporary files before processing, ensuring that symbolic links are not followed during file creation operations. The implementation of secure temporary file creation practices, including the use of proper file creation modes and directory permissions, should be enforced throughout the system. Additionally, system administrators should monitor for unauthorized file modifications in the /tmp directory and implement automated scanning for potential symbolic link attacks. Network segmentation and privilege separation can help limit the potential impact of exploitation, while regular security audits should verify that temporary file handling practices comply with security best practices and industry standards.