CVE-2022-40299 in Singular
Summary
by MITRE • 09/09/2022
In Singular before 4.3.1, a predictable /tmp pathname is used (e.g., by sdb.cc), which allows local users to gain the privileges of other users via a procedure in a file under /tmp. NOTE: this CVE Record is about sdb.cc and similar files in the Singular interface that have predictable /tmp pathnames; this CVE Record is not about the lack of a safe temporary-file creation capability in the Singular language.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/14/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-40299 affects the Singular mathematical software system prior to version 4.3.1, specifically targeting the sdb.cc file and similar components within the Singular interface. This issue represents a critical security flaw that stems from the predictable naming of temporary files within the /tmp directory structure. The vulnerability arises from the software's implementation of temporary file handling mechanisms that do not adequately randomize or secure the naming conventions used for temporary files, creating a predictable pattern that malicious local users can exploit to escalate privileges.
The technical flaw manifests through the use of hardcoded or easily predictable temporary file paths that are created in the /tmp directory without proper security measures. When Singular creates temporary files in this location, it typically uses a naming scheme that can be anticipated by local attackers, allowing them to create malicious files with the same names before the legitimate software creates them. This predictable pathname vulnerability falls under the CWE-377 category of "Insecure Temporary File Creation" and represents a specific implementation weakness where the system fails to properly secure temporary file creation processes. The flaw enables attackers to perform race condition attacks or file replacement attacks against the temporary files, potentially allowing privilege escalation to the user context of other processes or users who create or access these temporary files.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant for systems running affected versions of Singular, particularly in multi-user environments where privilege separation is critical. Local users who can access the system can exploit this weakness to gain elevated privileges, potentially allowing them to execute arbitrary code with higher privileges than their current user context. The vulnerability specifically targets the sdb.cc file and similar components that handle debugging and interface operations within the Singular mathematical software, making it particularly dangerous for users who rely on these features. Attackers can leverage this weakness to create malicious files in the /tmp directory that will be executed or accessed by the Singular software, potentially leading to complete system compromise. This vulnerability directly relates to ATT&CK technique T1068 which involves exploiting local privilege escalation mechanisms.
The mitigation strategy for CVE-2022-40299 requires immediate updating of Singular to version 4.3.1 or later, which addresses the predictable temporary pathname issue through improved temporary file handling mechanisms. Organizations should also implement proper temporary file security measures including the use of secure temporary file creation functions that employ randomization and proper permissions. System administrators should monitor for any unauthorized access to temporary directories and implement additional security controls such as setting appropriate permissions on /tmp and related directories. The fix should ensure that temporary files are created with unique names and proper access controls to prevent predictable pathname attacks. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks of local privilege escalation and the importance of keeping software updated to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities in mathematical software environments.