CVE-1999-0859 in Solaris
Summary
by MITRE
Solaris arp allows local users to read files via the -f parameter, which lists lines in the file that do not parse properly.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/01/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-1999-0859 affects the Solaris operating system's arp utility, specifically exposing a security flaw in how the command handles file input through the -f parameter. This issue represents a classic case of improper input validation and file processing that can be exploited by local users to gain unauthorized access to system resources. The arp utility in Solaris is designed to manipulate and display the Internet Protocol address resolution protocol table, which maps IP addresses to physical machine addresses. When the -f parameter is used, the utility should process a file containing arp entries, but the implementation contains a critical flaw that allows malicious file content to be interpreted in unexpected ways.
The technical flaw stems from the arp utility's inadequate handling of malformed input data when processing files through the -f flag. Local users can craft specially formatted files that, when passed to the arp utility, cause the system to parse and display lines that do not conform to expected arp entry formats. This parsing behavior creates a potential information disclosure vulnerability where sensitive system files or data may be accessible through the utility's output. The vulnerability operates under CWE-20, which describes improper input validation, and specifically relates to CWE-200, which covers exposure of sensitive information. The flaw essentially allows a local attacker to perform a form of file content enumeration or read operations without proper authorization, as the arp utility's file processing mechanism does not adequately sanitize or validate the input data.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it represents a privilege escalation vector for local users who may not have direct access to sensitive files. Attackers can leverage this flaw to potentially read system configuration files, log files, or other sensitive data that might contain credentials, system information, or other confidential details. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it requires only local access to exploit, making it accessible to users who may have basic system privileges. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1005, which covers data from local system, and T1059, which involves command and scripting interpreter. The vulnerability also demonstrates poor separation of concerns in system utilities, where a network-related tool (arp) is being used to process file input in a manner that exposes system internals.
The exploitation of CVE-1999-0859 typically involves creating a malicious file with specific formatting that causes the arp utility to output contents of other system files or sensitive data structures. This type of vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and the principle of least privilege in system design. Security practitioners should recognize this as a precursor to more sophisticated file inclusion and information disclosure vulnerabilities that have become common in modern software systems. Organizations running Solaris systems should immediately implement patches and updates to address this vulnerability, as it represents a fundamental flaw in how system utilities process user-provided input. The vulnerability also underscores the need for comprehensive security testing of system utilities, particularly those that handle file input or process external data sources. Implementing proper access controls and input sanitization measures can prevent similar issues in other system components and aligns with security best practices outlined in various industry standards including those from NIST and ISO 27001.