CVE-2002-1516 in IRIX
Summary
by MITRE
rpcbind in SGI IRIX, when using the -w command line switch, allows local users to overwrite arbitrary files via a symlink attack.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/13/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-1516 affects rpcbind functionality within SGI IRIX operating systems when executed with the -w command line switch. This issue represents a classic symlink attack vector that exploits the way the rpcbind service handles file operations during startup or configuration processes. The flaw occurs because rpcbind does not properly validate file paths when the -w switch is enabled, creating an opportunity for local attackers to manipulate the system's file structure through symbolic link manipulation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper path validation within the rpcbind daemon's file handling mechanisms. When rpcbind is invoked with the -w switch, it typically initializes or modifies specific configuration files in the system's filesystem. However, the service fails to perform adequate checks to ensure that the target files are not symbolic links pointing to arbitrary locations. This allows a local user to create a symbolic link with the same name as the file that rpcbind attempts to write to, effectively redirecting the write operation to a location of the attacker's choosing. The vulnerability manifests as a privilege escalation or arbitrary file overwrite condition that can be exploited by any local user with access to the system.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability presents significant security implications for systems running SGI IRIX with rpcbind configured to use the -w switch. Local attackers can leverage this flaw to overwrite critical system files, potentially leading to system compromise, data corruption, or privilege escalation to higher system privileges. The attack requires only local system access and does not necessitate network connectivity, making it particularly dangerous in environments where local access is not strictly controlled. This vulnerability directly relates to CWE-59 and CWE-22 within the Common Weakness Enumeration framework, which categorize issues related to improper handling of symbolic links and path traversal attacks. The attack vector aligns with techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1059 for command and script injection, and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-1516 should focus on immediate patching of affected systems with the appropriate vendor security updates. Organizations should also implement strict file access controls and permissions to limit local user access to critical system files. System administrators should avoid using the -w switch in rpcbind unless absolutely necessary, and when usage is required, ensure that all configuration files are properly secured against symbolic link attacks. Additionally, monitoring systems should be configured to detect unusual file modification patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the importance of proper input validation and file path handling in system services, particularly those that operate with elevated privileges during system initialization or configuration processes. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar path traversal and symlink vulnerabilities in other system components and services.