CVE-2019-18932 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

Squid Analysis Report Generator (sarg) up to version 2.3.11 is vulnerable to a local privilege escalation flaw due to insecure usage of the /tmp/sarg directory.

Understanding CVE-2019-18932

This CVE involves a vulnerability in the log.c file of Squid Analysis Report Generator (sarg) that allows attackers to escalate privileges locally by exploiting the default temporary directory.

What is CVE-2019-18932?

The vulnerability in sarg up to version 2.3.11 stems from the insecure creation or reuse of the /tmp/sarg directory when running as the root user. Attackers can manipulate this directory to corrupt or create files in privileged locations.

The Impact of CVE-2019-18932

The exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to the corruption or unauthorized creation of files in critical system locations, potentially compromising system integrity and security.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-18932

Sarg vulnerability details and affected systems.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in log.c allows attackers to exploit the /tmp/sarg directory, leading to local privilege escalation by manipulating symlinks and winning a race condition.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Squid Analysis Report Generator (sarg)
Versions: Up to 2.3.11

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers pre-create the /tmp/sarg directory, place symlinks after winning a race condition with /tmp/sarg/denied.int_unsort, and corrupt or create files in privileged locations.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-18932.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply patches or updates provided by the vendor promptly.
Restrict access to the /tmp/sarg directory.
Monitor system logs for any suspicious activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement the principle of least privilege to limit root user access.
Regularly audit and review directory permissions and ownership.
Conduct security training to educate users on safe directory handling.

Patching and Updates

Update sarg to version 2.3.12 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.