CVE-2014-1934 in eyeD3
Summary
by MITRE
tag.py in eyeD3 (aka python-eyed3) 7.0.3, 0.6.18, and earlier for Python allows local users to modify arbitrary files via a symlink attack on a temporary file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/20/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-1934 resides within the eyeD3 library, specifically in the tag.py module of versions 7.0.3 and 0.6.18, along with earlier releases. This issue represents a classic symlink attack scenario that exploits insecure temporary file handling practices within the Python-based audio metadata manipulation tool. The vulnerability allows local attackers to potentially modify arbitrary files on the system by leveraging a race condition or improper file handling during temporary file creation processes.
The technical flaw manifests when the eyeD3 library creates temporary files during its operation, particularly when processing audio metadata. The implementation fails to properly validate or secure temporary file creation processes, enabling attackers to establish symbolic links that point to sensitive target files before the library creates its own temporary files. This insecure practice follows the common pattern of predictable temporary file names or insufficient permission checks that are often categorized under CWE-377, which addresses insecure temporary file creation. The vulnerability essentially allows an attacker to manipulate the file system by creating a symlink that the library will subsequently write to, thereby modifying files that the attacker would not normally have write access to.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability presents a significant security risk for systems that utilize eyeD3 for audio file management or metadata processing. The attack requires local system access, making it particularly concerning for environments where multiple users share system resources or where unprivileged users might have access to audio processing utilities. The potential consequences include unauthorized modification of critical system files, data integrity compromise, and possible privilege escalation scenarios depending on the context of execution. Attackers could exploit this vulnerability to overwrite configuration files, inject malicious code into system binaries, or manipulate audio files in ways that could affect downstream applications or services relying on these metadata structures.
The mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-1934 should focus on addressing the underlying insecure temporary file handling practices within the eyeD3 library. System administrators should immediately update to patched versions of the library where available, as the vulnerability has been resolved in subsequent releases through proper temporary file creation methods that include secure permissions, unique naming schemes, or atomic file creation processes. Additionally, implementing proper file system permissions and restricting write access to critical system directories can help limit the potential impact of such attacks. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for executing malicious code through local file manipulation and T1068 for local privilege escalation. Organizations should also consider implementing monitoring solutions that can detect unusual file creation patterns or symlink operations that might indicate exploitation attempts. Security hardening practices including SELinux or AppArmor policies can further restrict the library's ability to create or modify files in unexpected locations, thereby reducing the attack surface for this particular vulnerability.