CVE-2002-1618 in HP-UX
Summary
by MITRE
JFS (JFS3.1 and OnlineJFS) in HP-UX 10.20, 11.00, and 11.04 does not properly implement the sticky bit functionality, which could allow attackers to bypass intended restrictions on filesystems.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/15/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2002-1618 represents a critical flaw in the JFS filesystem implementation within HP-UX operating systems version 10.20, 11.00, and 11.04. This issue specifically targets the sticky bit functionality, which is a fundamental security mechanism designed to prevent unauthorized users from deleting or renaming files they do not own within shared directories. The sticky bit, when properly implemented, ensures that only the file owner, directory owner, or root can delete files within a directory, even when that directory is writable by all users. This security feature is essential for maintaining proper access controls in multi-user environments where shared directories are common.
The technical flaw in JFS3.1 and OnlineJFS stems from improper implementation of the sticky bit checks during file operations. When the filesystem fails to properly enforce the sticky bit restrictions, it allows attackers to bypass the intended access controls that should prevent users from removing files they do not own. This vulnerability specifically affects the directory deletion and renaming operations within shared filesystems, creating a scenario where malicious users can manipulate files in directories that should be protected by the sticky bit mechanism. The flaw essentially undermines the fundamental security principle that shared directories should remain secure against unauthorized modifications by non-owners, creating a pathway for privilege escalation and potential data compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file deletion, as it fundamentally weakens the security model of the filesystem. Attackers who exploit this flaw can gain unauthorized access to sensitive data by removing or modifying files in shared directories, potentially leading to data loss, information disclosure, or system compromise. This vulnerability particularly affects environments where multiple users share directories with the sticky bit set, such as temporary directories, application directories, or any shared filesystem where security is paramount. The consequences can range from minor disruptions to significant security breaches, depending on the nature of the files involved and the overall system architecture.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of system updates and patches provided by HP to correct the sticky bit implementation in JFS. Organizations should also conduct thorough security assessments of their filesystem configurations to identify directories that may be affected by this vulnerability and ensure proper access controls are maintained through alternative means. System administrators should consider implementing additional monitoring and logging mechanisms to detect unauthorized file operations within shared directories. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-276, which addresses improper file permissions, and falls under ATT&CK technique T1068, which relates to exploit for privilege escalation. Given the nature of the flaw, it is essential that system administrators also review and validate all existing filesystem security policies to ensure that the integrity of shared directories is maintained through proper configuration and access control mechanisms.