CVE-2016-6153 in iTunes
Summary
by MITRE
os_unix.c in SQLite before 3.13.0 improperly implements the temporary directory search algorithm, which might allow local users to obtain sensitive information, cause a denial of service (application crash), or have unspecified other impact by leveraging use of the current working directory for temporary files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/24/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-6153 affects SQLite versions prior to 3.13.0 and resides within the os_unix.c file that governs Unix-based operating system interactions. This flaw represents a critical security weakness in how the database engine handles temporary file creation and directory management, creating potential pathways for malicious exploitation. The issue stems from an improper implementation of the temporary directory search algorithm that fails to properly validate or sanitize directory paths, leading to unexpected behavior when temporary files are created during database operations. The vulnerability specifically impacts systems where the current working directory might be inadvertently used as a temporary file location, creating a dangerous precedent for information disclosure and system stability.
The technical implementation flaw occurs when SQLite attempts to locate an appropriate temporary directory for creating temporary files during database operations. In vulnerable versions, the algorithm does not properly check or validate directory permissions, existence, or security properties before selecting the current working directory as a temporary file location. This creates a scenario where local users can manipulate the working directory to point to sensitive locations or directories with predictable paths, potentially allowing attackers to read or write files in unexpected locations. The flaw can be exploited through directory traversal techniques or by placing malicious files in specific locations where SQLite might attempt to create temporary files. This behavior directly violates security principles related to least privilege and proper resource management, as the database engine fails to maintain proper isolation between its temporary file operations and the broader filesystem.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-6153 extends beyond simple information disclosure to include potential denial of service conditions that can crash applications relying on SQLite. When the temporary directory search algorithm fails, it can cause application crashes or unexpected termination, creating availability issues for systems dependent on SQLite functionality. Local users can leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information that might be stored in temporary files or to manipulate the database engine's behavior through carefully crafted directory structures. The unspecified other impacts mentioned in the vulnerability description suggest that the flaw could potentially enable privilege escalation or other advanced exploitation techniques, particularly when combined with other vulnerabilities or in specific system configurations. This vulnerability is particularly concerning in environments where SQLite is used for web applications, embedded systems, or applications that handle sensitive data, as it provides a foothold for attackers to compromise system integrity.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-6153 primarily focus on upgrading to SQLite version 3.13.0 or later, where the temporary directory search algorithm has been properly implemented to prevent the use of insecure directory paths. System administrators should also implement proper directory permissions and ensure that temporary directories are properly configured with restricted access controls. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-276, which addresses improper file permissions, and can be mapped to ATT&CK technique T1059 for execution through command-line interfaces. Organizations should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify systems running vulnerable versions of SQLite and implement patch management procedures to ensure all database engines are updated. Additionally, monitoring for unusual temporary file creation patterns or directory access attempts can help detect potential exploitation attempts. The fix implemented in SQLite 3.13.0 addresses the core issue by introducing proper validation of temporary directory paths and ensuring that the current working directory is not automatically used for temporary file operations without proper verification of security properties.