CVE-2003-0846 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE
SuSEconfig.javarunt in the javarunt package on SuSE Linux 7.3Pro allows local users to overwrite arbitrary files via a symlink attack on the .java_wrapper temporary file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/13/2016
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2003-0846 resides within the SuSEconfig.javarunt script component of the javarunt package distributed with SuSE Linux 7.3Pro operating system. This flaw represents a classic symlink attack scenario that exploits insecure temporary file handling practices within the system's Java runtime configuration process. The vulnerability specifically targets the .java_wrapper temporary file creation mechanism, which serves as a critical component in the Java environment setup and configuration management for SuSE Linux systems.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of temporary files during the Java runtime configuration process. When the SuSEconfig.javarunt script executes, it creates a temporary file named .java_wrapper without adequately verifying the existence or ownership of this file. Local users can exploit this by creating a symbolic link with the same name in the target directory, effectively redirecting the script's file operations to arbitrary locations on the filesystem. This type of attack falls under the category of time-of-check to time-of-use race conditions and is classified as CWE-367, which specifically addresses the issue of time-of-check to time-of-use race conditions. The vulnerability represents a fundamental flaw in privilege escalation and file system security controls within the package management and configuration framework of SuSE Linux.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file overwriting capabilities, as it provides attackers with the potential to modify critical system files, inject malicious code, or escalate privileges within the local environment. Since the script typically executes with elevated privileges during system configuration processes, successful exploitation could allow local users to gain higher-level access to system resources and potentially compromise the entire system integrity. The attack vector demonstrates a significant weakness in the Unix file permission model implementation and the trust assumptions made by system administrators regarding the security of package configuration scripts. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers the exploitation of local privilege escalation opportunities through insecure file handling practices.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of proper file handling procedures within the affected SuSEconfig.javarunt script. System administrators should ensure that temporary file creation employs secure methods such as creating files with unique names or using proper file permission controls that prevent symbolic link attacks. The recommended approach involves implementing atomic file creation mechanisms that either use file descriptors directly or employ proper directory permissions that prevent unauthorized symbolic link creation. Additionally, upgrading to newer versions of SuSE Linux that contain patched implementations of the javarunt package resolves this vulnerability entirely. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive audits of their system configuration scripts to identify similar time-of-check to time-of-use race conditions that may exist in other components of their infrastructure. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of secure coding practices in system administration tools and the necessity of implementing proper input validation and file access controls in all system-level scripts.