CVE-2003-0120 in mhc-utils
Summary
by MITRE
adb2mhc in the mhc-utils package before 0.25+20010625-7.1 allows local users to overwrite arbitrary files via a symlink attack on a default temporary directory with a predictable name.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/15/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2003-0120 affects the adb2mhc utility within the mhc-utils package, specifically targeting versions prior to 0.25+20010625-7.1. This represents a classic symlink attack scenario that exploits predictable temporary file handling to enable unauthorized file overwrites. The flaw exists in how the utility manages temporary files during its operation, creating a path traversal and file overwrite vulnerability that local attackers can leverage to compromise system integrity.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the predictable naming convention used for temporary directories within the adb2mhc utility. When the utility executes, it creates temporary files in a default location with a known, predictable name structure. Local users can exploit this predictability by creating symbolic links with the same names in the expected temporary directory location before the utility runs. This symlink attack allows attackers to redirect the utility's file creation operations to arbitrary locations on the filesystem, enabling them to overwrite files owned by other users or even system-critical files with malicious content. The vulnerability operates under CWE-367, which categorizes the weakness as Time-of-Check to Time-of-Use (TOCTOU) race conditions, where the system checks for file existence and then uses the file in a manner that can be exploited.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file overwrites, as it can potentially enable privilege escalation scenarios when the utility runs with elevated privileges. Attackers can target system files, configuration files, or even files owned by other users to gain unauthorized access or cause system instability. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in multi-user environments where local users might not have direct access to sensitive system files but could manipulate temporary file creation processes. This attack vector aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for execution through command-line interfaces and T1068 for privilege escalation through local exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of the mhc-utils package to version 0.25+20010625-7.1 or later, which addresses the predictable temporary file naming issue. Administrators should also implement proper temporary file handling practices, including using secure temporary directory creation with unique names, setting appropriate file permissions, and avoiding predictable naming conventions for temporary resources. The solution should incorporate proper atomic file creation techniques and validate file paths to prevent symlink traversal attacks. Additionally, system administrators should conduct regular vulnerability assessments to identify and remediate similar weaknesses in other utilities that may employ predictable temporary file handling mechanisms, ensuring that all system components follow secure coding practices that prevent race conditions and unauthorized file access scenarios.