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The vulnerability resides in the AutoExtract component’s `createTempFile` method within Robocode versions prior to 1.9.5.6. This method does not employ secure file creation practices, such as using unique, unpredictable filenames or setting restrictive file permissions. The primary issue is a Time-of-Check-Time-of-Use (TOCTOU) race condition. An attacker can predict or intercept the path where a temporary file will be created. By creating a symlink or file at that location between the time the program checks for the file’s existence and the time it writes to it, the attacker can redirect output. This allows overwriting of arbitrary files that the Robocode process has permission to modify, which could include critical system files or application configuration. If the overwritten file is executed or included by the system, it may lead to arbitrary code execution. The attack requires local filesystem access, but in shared environments or with specific user privileges, this can be escalated. The insecure API usage does not validate the file handle, making the creation non-atomic. Attackers manipulate the race window by repeatedly attempting to link the temporary file path to a target file. Successful exploitation corrupts data or injects malicious code, compromising the application’s integrity and potentially the host system.
Platform: Robocode
Version: <1.9.5.6
Vulnerability: Insecure temporary file
Severity: Critical
date: 2025-12-09
Prediction: Patched 1.9.5.6
What Undercode Say:
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find / -name "robocode" -type f 2>/dev/null ls -la /tmp | grep robocode strace -e file robocode.jar 2>&1 | grep tmp
// Example of vulnerable pattern
File tempFile = File.createTempFile("robocode", ".tmp");
// Secure alternative would use Files.createTempFile with attributes
How Exploit:
1. Identify target Robocode version.
- Monitor or predict temporary file paths in /tmp.
3. Craft symlink attack during file creation race.
- Overwrite sensitive file like .bashrc or a script.
5. Trigger execution via user or system processes.
Protection from this CVE
Update to version 1.9.5.6.
Use secure temp file APIs.
Set proper file permissions.
Implement atomic file operations.
Impact:
Arbitrary code execution.
File overwrite attacks.
System compromise.
Loss of integrity.
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Sources:
Reported By: github.com
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