CVE-2000-1072 in iPlanet iCal
Summary
by MITRE
iCal 2.1 Patch 2 installs many files with world-writeable permissions, which allows local users to modify the iCal configuration and execute arbitrary commands by replacing the iplncal.sh program with a Trojan horse.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/13/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2000-1072 represents a critical privilege escalation issue within Apple iCal 2.1 Patch 2 that stems from improper file permission management. This flaw allows local attackers to gain elevated system privileges by exploiting weak access controls that were implemented during the software installation process. The vulnerability specifically affects the iCal application's installation package where numerous files are created with world-writeable permissions, creating a persistent security weakness that can be exploited across multiple system components.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability relies on the fundamental principle of least privilege violation where system files should not be accessible for modification by unauthorized users. The iCal application installs several critical components including the iplncal.sh program that serves as an execution point for calendar-related operations. When this script is installed with world-writeable permissions, it becomes a prime target for malicious modification. Attackers can simply replace the legitimate script with a malicious Trojan horse version that executes arbitrary commands with the privileges of the user running iCal, effectively allowing code execution at elevated levels.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass complete system compromise potential. Local users who can access the system with minimal privileges can leverage this flaw to modify core calendar functionality and potentially gain access to sensitive data or system resources. The vulnerability operates under the attack pattern described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under privilege escalation techniques, specifically targeting the persistence and privilege escalation phases where attackers seek to maintain control over compromised systems. This weakness can be particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where different users have varying levels of system access.
From a compliance and security standards perspective, this vulnerability directly contravenes the principles outlined in CWE-732 which addresses improper file permissions that allow modification by unauthorized users. The flaw represents a critical failure in the principle of least privilege and demonstrates inadequate security hardening during software deployment. Organizations implementing iCal 2.1 Patch 2 would be exposed to significant risk as this vulnerability provides a straightforward path for attackers to execute malicious code without requiring network access or sophisticated exploitation techniques. The remediation strategy should focus on immediate permission correction for all installed files, particularly the iplncal.sh script, and implementation of proper file access controls that prevent unauthorized modification while maintaining legitimate functionality.
The mitigation approach for this vulnerability requires immediate administrative intervention to correct file permissions on all iCal installation components. System administrators should verify that critical executables and configuration files are not accessible for modification by non-privileged users. This includes setting appropriate ownership and permission levels that prevent world-writeable access to installation directories and executable files. The fix should also involve implementing proper file integrity checking mechanisms to detect unauthorized modifications to system components. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing privilege separation techniques and monitoring for unauthorized file changes to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited in other applications or system components.