CVE-2002-0248 in wmtv
Summary
by MITRE
wmtv 0.6.5 and earlier allows local users to modify arbitrary files via a symlink attack on a configuration file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/18/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-0248 affects wmtv version 0.6.5 and earlier, representing a significant security flaw that enables local users to manipulate arbitrary files through a symbolic link attack targeting configuration files. This issue stems from improper handling of file operations within the application's configuration processing mechanism, creating a path traversal and file manipulation vulnerability that can be exploited by attackers with local system access.
The technical flaw manifests when the wmtv application processes configuration files without adequately validating the existence and integrity of symbolic links within its file processing workflow. This allows malicious local users to create symbolic links that point to sensitive system files or directories, enabling them to overwrite or modify files that should normally be protected from unauthorized access. The vulnerability specifically exploits the lack of proper symlink resolution and file access validation during the configuration file handling process, which falls under the category of insecure file handling practices commonly referenced in CWE-377 and CWE-378.
Operationally, this vulnerability poses a substantial risk to systems where wmtv is installed, as local users can leverage the symlink attack to modify critical system files, configuration settings, or even sensitive data stored in the application's configuration directory. The impact extends beyond simple file modification, potentially allowing attackers to escalate privileges, corrupt system configurations, or establish persistent access points within the affected environment. Given that this is a local privilege escalation vector, attackers must already have system access but can then use this vulnerability to gain broader control over system resources and data integrity.
The attack surface for this vulnerability is relatively narrow but significant, as it requires local system access to exploit, making it a post-compromise escalation technique rather than an initial access vector. However, in environments where multiple users share systems or where privilege separation is not properly enforced, this vulnerability can be particularly dangerous. The exploitation process typically involves creating a malicious symbolic link in the application's expected configuration file location, followed by triggering the application's configuration processing routine to execute the attack.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-0248 should focus on immediate remediation through patching the wmtv application to version 0.6.6 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for proper symlink handling and file validation. System administrators should also implement proper file access controls and permissions for configuration directories, ensuring that symbolic links are properly validated before file operations are performed. Additionally, the principle of least privilege should be enforced, limiting local user access to system resources and implementing proper file integrity monitoring to detect unauthorized modifications. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers local privilege escalation, and demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and file handling practices in preventing path traversal and symbolic link attacks that can compromise system security.