CVE-2024-2313 in bpftrace
Summary
by MITRE • 03/11/2024
If kernel headers need to be extracted, bpftrace will attempt to load them from a temporary directory. An unprivileged attacker could use this to force bcc to load compromised linux headers. Linux distributions which provide kernel headers by default are not affected by default.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/13/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-2313 resides within the bpftrace tooling ecosystem, specifically targeting how the system handles kernel header extraction during runtime operations. This flaw manifests when bpftrace requires kernel headers for its functionality, prompting the tool to attempt loading these headers from a temporary directory location. The issue stems from inadequate validation and sanitization of the temporary directory path, creating an exploitable condition that allows unprivileged users to manipulate the header loading process. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it leverages the legitimate temporary file handling mechanisms within the bpftrace framework, making it difficult to distinguish between normal operation and malicious interference.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability operates through a path traversal and privilege escalation vector that exploits the trust model between bpftrace and its temporary file handling subsystem. When kernel headers are required, the tool creates or utilizes temporary directories without proper access control measures or path validation checks. An unprivileged attacker can manipulate the temporary directory contents or create symbolic links that redirect the header loading process to maliciously crafted kernel headers. This manipulation allows the attacker to inject compromised headers that can subsequently be loaded by the bcc tooling, potentially leading to code execution or privilege escalation within the kernel space. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Path Traversal and CWE-367 Time-of-Check to Time-of-Use issues, representing a classic example of insecure temporary file handling.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-2313 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it can enable sophisticated attack vectors that compromise the integrity of the entire system. When successful, this vulnerability allows attackers to bypass normal security boundaries and potentially gain elevated privileges within the kernel environment where bpftrace operates. The attack surface is particularly relevant in environments where bpftrace is used for system monitoring or debugging purposes, as these scenarios often involve elevated privileges or require access to kernel-level information. The vulnerability's exploitation does not require root access initially, making it a significant concern for environments where unprivileged users have access to systems running bpftrace. This weakness can be leveraged in conjunction with other techniques to establish persistent access or escalate privileges to full system compromise, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1068 Privilege Escalation through the use of legitimate system tools.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-2313 should focus on implementing proper access controls and validation mechanisms within the temporary file handling process. System administrators should ensure that bpftrace is configured to use secure temporary directories with appropriate permissions and that symbolic link protections are enabled. The recommended approach involves restricting access to temporary directories and implementing proper input validation for header file locations. Additionally, organizations should consider upgrading to patched versions of bpftrace and bcc tooling where available, as the vulnerability is primarily addressed through code-level fixes that enforce secure temporary file handling. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure coding practices for system tools that handle kernel-level operations, emphasizing the need for proper validation and sanitization of all external inputs and temporary file operations. Regular security audits of system tools and their temporary file handling mechanisms should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities that could be exploited in similar contexts.