CVE-2000-0366 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE
dump in Debian GNU/Linux 2.1 does not properly restore symlinks, which allows a local user to modify the ownership of arbitrary files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/19/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2000-0366 affects Debian GNU/Linux 2.1 systems where the dump utility fails to properly restore symbolic links during backup restoration processes. This flaw represents a significant security weakness in the system's file integrity management capabilities. The dump utility is designed to create backups of filesystems, but when restoring these backups, it does not correctly handle symbolic link ownership semantics, creating an opportunity for privilege escalation attacks.
This technical flaw stems from improper handling of file attributes during the restore operation, specifically concerning symbolic links and their ownership properties. When dump restores files, it processes symbolic links without maintaining proper ownership relationships, allowing local users to exploit this behavior to manipulate file ownership. The vulnerability manifests as a privilege escalation vector where an attacker can gain unauthorized control over files that should remain protected. According to CWE classification, this represents a weakness in the system's file access control mechanisms, specifically CWE-276 for incorrect file permissions and CWE-264 for permissions, privileges, and access controls.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file ownership manipulation, as it enables local users to potentially compromise system integrity and access sensitive data. Attackers can exploit this weakness to modify ownership of critical system files, potentially gaining elevated privileges or disrupting normal system operations. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires only local access, making it accessible to any user with shell privileges on the affected system. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation, as it provides a method for local users to elevate their privileges through improper file handling.
The security implications of this vulnerability are particularly severe in multi-user environments where proper file ownership controls are essential for system security. Systems running Debian GNU/Linux 2.1 are at risk of unauthorized file manipulation, potentially allowing attackers to modify system configuration files, replace critical binaries, or access restricted data. The lack of proper symlink restoration during backup operations creates a persistent security gap that can be exploited repeatedly. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including system updates to newer Debian releases, manual verification of file ownership after backup operations, and monitoring for unauthorized file ownership changes. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper file system attribute handling during backup and restore operations, emphasizing the need for comprehensive testing of system utilities in security-critical environments.