CVE-2002-1513 in OpenVMS
Summary
by MITRE
The UCX POP server in HP TCP/IP services for OpenVMS 4.2 through 5.3 allows local users to truncate arbitrary files via the -logfile command line option, which overrides file system permissions because the server runs with the SYSPRV and BYPASS privileges.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/22/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2002-1513 represents a critical privilege escalation and file manipulation flaw within HP TCP/IP services for OpenVMS operating systems. This issue affects UCX POP server implementations running versions 4.2 through 5.3, where the server process operates with elevated privileges including SYSPRV and BYPASS capabilities. The core technical flaw manifests through the -logfile command line option which, when improperly utilized by local users, enables file truncation operations that bypass normal file system permission controls. This vulnerability directly violates fundamental security principles by allowing users with minimal privileges to manipulate system files that should be protected by standard access controls.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file truncation to encompass broader system compromise possibilities. Since the server runs with SYSPRV privileges, local attackers can exploit this weakness to modify critical system files, potentially leading to persistent backdoors or complete system compromise. The BYPASS privilege further amplifies the threat by allowing circumvention of normal security mechanisms that would otherwise protect against such unauthorized file operations. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-264, which addresses permissions, privileges, and access controls, specifically highlighting the dangerous combination of elevated privileges with insecure file handling practices. The flaw demonstrates poor privilege separation and inadequate input validation within the server's command line argument processing.
From an attack perspective, this vulnerability creates a pathway for local users to perform unauthorized file system modifications without proper authentication or authorization. The ability to override file system permissions through command line arguments represents a classic example of insecure parameter handling that can be exploited for privilege escalation attacks. The threat landscape for this vulnerability includes potential exploitation by malicious insiders or attackers who have gained local access to the system, as the flaw does not require network connectivity to be exploited. This weakness can be leveraged to create persistent access mechanisms or to corrupt system files that could lead to denial of service or complete system compromise. The vulnerability's classification under ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation," underscores its potential for enabling further malicious activities once initial access is obtained. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including privilege restrictions, input validation for command line parameters, and monitoring for unauthorized file system modifications to prevent exploitation of this vulnerability.