CVE-2002-0662 in Scrollkeeper
Summary
by MITRE
scrollkeeper-get-cl in ScrollKeeper 0.3 to 0.3.11 allows local users to create and overwrite files via a symlink attack on the scrollkeeper-tempfile.x temporary files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/24/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-0662 affects ScrollKeeper versions 0.3 through 0.3.11, specifically within the scrollkeeper-get-cl utility. This represents a classic file system race condition and privilege escalation issue that has significant implications for local system security. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of temporary files during the execution of the scrollkeeper-get-cl utility, creating opportunities for malicious local users to manipulate the system's file structure.
The technical flaw manifests in how the scrollkeeper-get-cl utility manages temporary files named scrollkeeper-tempfile.x. When this utility executes, it creates temporary files in a predictable manner without proper security checks or atomic operations. Local attackers can exploit this by creating symbolic links in the expected temporary file locations before the utility runs. This symlink attack allows the attacker to control what files are created or overwritten, potentially leading to arbitrary file creation or modification with elevated privileges.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file manipulation. Since the utility likely runs with elevated privileges due to its role in managing system documentation databases, successful exploitation could enable attackers to overwrite critical system files, create backdoor executables, or modify configuration files that affect system integrity. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in environments where local users have access to system administration tools or where the utility is executed in contexts that provide elevated permissions.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-377, which addresses insecure temporary file creation practices, and CWE-378, which covers the creation of temporary files with insecure permissions. The attack pattern follows typical privilege escalation techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1068, which covers local privilege escalation through the exploitation of software vulnerabilities. The symlink attack vector specifically relates to T1548.001, which covers abuse of the setuid bit and other privilege escalation mechanisms.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-0662 require immediate patching of affected ScrollKeeper versions to 0.3.12 or later, which addressed the temporary file handling issues. System administrators should also implement proper file system permissions and ensure that temporary directories used by system utilities have appropriate security settings. The fix typically involves using secure temporary file creation methods such as mkstemp() or similar atomic operations that prevent symlink attacks. Additionally, regular security audits should verify that no symbolic links exist in temporary file paths and that system utilities properly handle temporary file creation without predictable naming schemes. Organizations should also consider implementing privilege separation techniques to minimize the impact of such vulnerabilities even when they occur.