CVE-1999-1350 in Arcad
Summary
by MITRE
ARCAD Systemhaus 0.078-5 installs critical programs and files with world-writeable permissions, which could allow local users to gain privileges by replacing a program with a Trojan horse.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/19/2026
The vulnerability described in CVE-1999-1350 represents a critical security flaw in ARCAD Systemhaus version 0.078-5 that stems from improper permission settings during software installation. This issue falls under the category of insecure permissions as classified by CWE-732, where system components are configured with excessively permissive access controls. The flaw allows local attackers to escalate their privileges by substituting legitimate executable files with malicious Trojan horse programs, exploiting the world-writeable permissions that were inadvertently granted to critical system files and programs.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the installation process of ARCAD Systemhaus where essential system binaries and programs are created with permissions that permit any user to modify or replace them. This configuration violates fundamental security principles of least privilege and proper access control enforcement. When system components are installed with world-writeable permissions, they become prime targets for privilege escalation attacks, as attackers can simply overwrite these files with their own malicious executables that will execute with the privileges of the original program. The vulnerability specifically impacts the integrity of the system by allowing unauthorized modifications to critical software components that are typically protected from modification.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it provides local users with a straightforward path to privilege escalation without requiring external network access or complex exploitation techniques. Attackers can leverage this weakness to gain elevated system privileges, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic example of how poor permission management during software installation can create persistent security weaknesses that remain exploitable until the affected system is properly patched or reinstalled. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where local access is commonly available.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-1999-1350 should focus on immediate permission correction and proper system hardening practices. System administrators must ensure that all critical system files and programs are installed with appropriate permissions that restrict write access to authorized users only. The recommended approach involves implementing proper file permission controls during installation processes, typically setting permissions to 755 for executables and 644 for configuration files. Additionally, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers privilege escalation through local exploits, emphasizing the need for comprehensive system integrity monitoring and regular permission audits. Organizations should also implement automated tools to detect and remediate improper file permissions, as well as establish secure installation procedures that enforce proper access control settings from the initial software deployment.