CVE-1999-0907 in Soundcard Cw
Summary
by MITRE
sccw allows local users to read arbitrary files.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/19/2026
The vulnerability described in CVE-1999-0907 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw within the sccw utility that enables local attackers to access arbitrary files on the system. This issue stems from inadequate input validation and file access controls within the sccw application, which is typically used for managing system configuration and communications. The vulnerability operates by allowing unauthorized file access through improper file handling mechanisms, potentially exposing sensitive system information to local users who should not have such privileges.
This security flaw falls under the category of inadequate input validation and improper access control, which are commonly classified under CWE-22 for "Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory" and CWE-73 for "External Control of File Name or Path". The vulnerability demonstrates a classic path traversal issue where the sccw utility fails to properly sanitize user inputs or validate file paths before processing them. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious inputs that bypass normal file access restrictions, potentially leading to unauthorized reading of sensitive files such as configuration data, user credentials, or system logs.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can enable attackers to gather intelligence about the system's configuration and potentially identify other security weaknesses. Local users who exploit this vulnerability can access files that contain sensitive information, including but not limited to system configuration parameters, user account details, or application-specific data. This access can facilitate further attacks such as privilege escalation, credential harvesting, or system compromise. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it requires minimal privileges to exploit, making it an attractive target for attackers seeking to gain unauthorized access to system resources.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and access control mechanisms within the sccw utility. System administrators should ensure that the application properly sanitizes all user inputs and validates file paths before processing them. The recommended approach includes implementing strict file access controls that prevent traversal beyond designated directories and enforcing proper privilege separation. Additionally, regular security audits should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other system utilities and applications. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege controls and monitoring for suspicious file access patterns. This vulnerability aligns with several ATT&CK techniques including T1005 for "Data from Local System" and T1059 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter", highlighting the need for comprehensive security measures that address both the immediate vulnerability and broader attack surface considerations.
The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper file handling practices in system utilities and applications, particularly those that operate with elevated privileges or handle sensitive data. Modern security frameworks emphasize the need for robust input validation and access control mechanisms to prevent such issues from occurring. Organizations should also implement regular security testing and code reviews to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by malicious actors. This particular flaw underscores the ongoing need for security awareness and proper development practices that consider potential attack vectors during the design and implementation phases of system components.