CVE-2013-6402 in Linux Imaging
Summary
by MITRE
base/pkit.py in HP Linux Imaging and Printing (HPLIP) through 3.13.11 allows local users to overwrite arbitrary files via a symlink attack on the /tmp/hp-pkservice.log temporary file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/18/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-6402 resides within the base/pkit.py component of HP Linux Imaging and Printing (HPLIP) software version 3.13.11 and earlier. This issue represents a classic symlink attack vulnerability that exploits insecure temporary file handling practices within the printing subsystem. The flaw specifically targets the /tmp/hp-pkservice.log temporary file location, which serves as a critical logging mechanism for the HPLIP package management and key installation processes. The vulnerability enables local attackers to manipulate the system's temporary file creation process by creating symbolic links that point to arbitrary files on the filesystem, thereby allowing unauthorized file overwrites and potential privilege escalation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the improper handling of temporary files during the execution of HPLIP's package key installation service. When the system processes package key installations, it creates temporary log files without adequate security checks to verify the legitimacy of the target file path. This insecure practice follows the common pattern described by CWE-377, which addresses insecure temporary file creation vulnerabilities. The flaw allows an attacker to establish a symbolic link at the expected temporary file location before the legitimate process creates the file, causing the system to write data to the attacker-controlled target file instead of the intended temporary location. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for execution through scripting, and specifically represents T1068 for local privilege escalation through insecure file permissions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file overwrites to potentially enable more sophisticated attacks within the system. Local users who can execute commands with the privileges of the HPLIP service can leverage this vulnerability to overwrite critical system files, configuration files, or even executable programs. The attack vector requires local system access but does not need elevated privileges initially, making it particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where users might have legitimate access to the printing subsystem. The vulnerability affects systems running HPLIP versions up to 3.13.11, representing a significant security risk for organizations that rely on HP printing solutions and have multiple users with access to the system. The compromised temporary file handling creates an attack surface that could be exploited to modify system integrity, potentially leading to persistent backdoors or complete system compromise.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-6402 should focus on immediate patching of affected HPLIP installations to version 3.13.12 or later, which includes the necessary security fixes for temporary file handling. Organizations should also implement proper file system permissions and access controls to limit the ability of local users to create symbolic links in critical temporary directories. The remediation approach should include reviewing and tightening the security of temporary file creation processes across all system components, particularly those that handle sensitive operations like package management and key installation. Additionally, system administrators should monitor for unauthorized symbolic link creation in temporary directories and implement proper file integrity monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices as outlined in the OWASP Secure Coding Practices and emphasizes the need for proper input validation and file path verification in all system components that handle temporary file operations.