CVE-2001-0079 in Support Tools Manager
Summary
by MITRE
Support Tools Manager (STM) A.22.00 for HP-UX allows local users to overwrite arbitrary files via a symlink attack on the tool_stat.txt log file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/07/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2001-0079 resides within the Support Tools Manager (STM) version A.22.00 for HP-UX operating systems, representing a classic file system security flaw that enables local privilege escalation through symbolic link manipulation. This issue specifically affects the tool_stat.txt log file handling mechanism within the STM utility, which operates with elevated privileges during log file creation and maintenance processes. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and improper file access controls that allow unauthorized local users to exploit the system's file creation routines through carefully crafted symbolic link attacks. The vulnerability operates at the system level where the STM tool performs file operations without adequate verification of the target file's integrity or existence, creating a window of opportunity for malicious exploitation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the exploitation of a race condition or insecure file handling pattern where the STM tool creates or updates the tool_stat.txt file without proper atomic operations or file permission validation. Attackers can establish symbolic links with the same name as the target log file in directories where the STM tool executes, effectively redirecting file operations to arbitrary locations on the filesystem. This type of attack falls under the category of symlink-based privilege escalation techniques that have been documented in various operating system security frameworks. The flaw demonstrates poor security design practices where the system does not adequately verify file ownership or access permissions before performing file operations, creating a direct pathway for unauthorized file modification. This vulnerability specifically aligns with CWE-59 and CWE-362 categories that address improper file handling and race conditions in file system operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file overwriting capabilities, as it enables local users to potentially modify critical system files or configuration data that could compromise system integrity and availability. When the STM tool executes with elevated privileges, the consequences of successful exploitation can include modification of system binaries, configuration files, or other sensitive data that may lead to persistent access or further privilege escalation opportunities. The vulnerability also presents a significant risk to system audit trails since the tool_stat.txt file serves as a logging mechanism for system monitoring activities, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to cover their tracks. This attack vector can be particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where local users may not have direct access to critical system resources but can leverage such vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access to system data.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of proper file access controls and secure file handling practices within the STM utility. System administrators should ensure that the STM tool operates with minimal required privileges and that all file creation operations use atomic file handling methods that prevent symbolic link manipulation. The recommended approach involves implementing proper file permission checks, using secure temporary file creation methods, and ensuring that log files are created with appropriate ownership and access restrictions. Additionally, system hardening measures should include regular security audits of installed software packages to identify and remediate similar insecure file handling patterns. Organizations should consider implementing monitoring solutions that can detect unauthorized file system modifications and symbolic link creation activities. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices and adheres to ATT&CK techniques related to privilege escalation through insecure file permissions and race condition exploitation. The remediation process should also include updating to patched versions of the STM software where available and implementing proper access control mechanisms that prevent local users from manipulating system tools with elevated privileges.