CVE-2014-5255 in xcfa
Summary
by MITRE
xcfa before 5.0.1 creates temporary files insecurely which could allow local users to launch a symlink attack and overwrite arbitrary files. Note: A different vulnerability than CVE-2014-5254.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/26/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-5255 affects the xcfa utility version 5.0.1 and earlier, presenting a significant security risk through insecure temporary file creation practices. This flaw enables local attackers to exploit symlink attacks and potentially overwrite arbitrary files on the system. The vulnerability specifically resides in how the application handles temporary file generation during its operation, creating a pathway for privilege escalation and data corruption. The issue is categorized under CWE-377, which addresses insecure temporary file handling, making it a critical concern for system integrity and user data protection. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic example of insecure file handling that can be exploited through symbolic link manipulation techniques.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the xcfa application's failure to properly secure temporary file creation processes. When the utility generates temporary files, it does not employ proper mechanisms to ensure file uniqueness or verify the security context of the temporary directory. This insecure approach allows local users to create symbolic links in the temporary file path before the application attempts to create its own temporary file. The attack vector specifically targets the race condition between the symbolic link creation and the temporary file creation, enabling an attacker to manipulate the system into writing data to a location of their choosing rather than the intended temporary file location. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1055 which covers privilege escalation through exploitation of insecure file handling mechanisms.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-5255 extends beyond simple file overwrite capabilities, as it represents a potential pathway for more sophisticated attacks within the system. Local attackers can leverage this vulnerability to overwrite critical system files, configuration files, or even files belonging to other users with elevated privileges. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the local user level without requiring network access or complex exploitation techniques, making it accessible to a wide range of threat actors. The insecure temporary file creation pattern can also be exploited to gain persistence within a compromised system, as attackers may target system configuration files or binaries that the application processes. This vulnerability affects the principle of least privilege by allowing unauthorized modification of system resources that should remain protected from local user interference.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-5255 should focus on implementing secure temporary file handling practices that prevent the exploitation of symbolic link attacks. System administrators should immediately upgrade to xcfa version 5.0.1 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the insecure temporary file creation vulnerability. Organizations should also implement proper file permissions and directory access controls to limit the ability of local users to manipulate temporary file locations. The recommended approach involves using secure temporary file creation functions that guarantee file uniqueness and prevent symbolic link attacks. Additionally, system monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual temporary file creation patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Security controls should include regular vulnerability assessments to identify similar insecure file handling practices within other applications and system components, as this vulnerability pattern is commonly found in legacy software implementations. The fix for this vulnerability aligns with security best practices outlined in the OWASP Secure Coding Guidelines and addresses the fundamental security principle that temporary file operations must be conducted with appropriate safeguards against symlink-based attacks.