CVE-2003-1058 in Solaris
Summary
by MITRE
The Xsun server for Sun Solaris 2.6 through 9, when running in Direct Graphics Access (DGA) mode, allows local users to cause a denial of service (Xsun crash) or to create or overwrite arbitrary files on the system, probably via a symlink attack on temporary server files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/27/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2003-1058 represents a critical security flaw in the Xsun server implementation within Sun Solaris operating systems ranging from version 2.6 through 9. This issue specifically manifests when the Xsun server operates in Direct Graphics Access mode, a configuration that provides direct hardware access to graphics resources for enhanced performance. The vulnerability stems from inadequate handling of temporary server files during DGA operation, creating exploitable conditions that can be leveraged by local attackers to compromise system integrity.
The technical flaw exploited in this vulnerability involves a race condition or improper file handling mechanism that allows local users to manipulate temporary files created by the Xsun server during its operation. When the server runs in DGA mode, it generates temporary files that are susceptible to symbolic link attacks, where an attacker can create malicious symbolic links that point to critical system files or directories. This manipulation can result in the Xsun server writing data to unintended locations, potentially overwriting important system files or creating arbitrary files with elevated privileges, depending on the server's execution context and permissions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service conditions to encompass potential privilege escalation and system integrity compromise. Local attackers who exploit this vulnerability can cause the Xsun server to crash, resulting in denial of service for graphical applications and desktop environments. More critically, the ability to create or overwrite arbitrary files opens pathways for persistent system compromise, as attackers can potentially modify configuration files, system binaries, or other critical resources. This vulnerability particularly affects environments where the Xsun server runs with elevated privileges, as the file manipulation capabilities can be leveraged to establish persistent backdoors or escalate privileges to root level access.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-377, which addresses the weakness of insecure temporary file creation, and demonstrates characteristics consistent with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter usage. The attack vector primarily targets local users through file system manipulation rather than network-based exploitation, making it particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where local access is possible. Organizations running affected Solaris versions should implement immediate mitigations including restricting local access to the Xsun server, implementing proper file permissions and ownership controls, and applying vendor patches when available. System administrators should also consider monitoring for suspicious file creation patterns and implementing intrusion detection systems to identify potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper temporary file handling in server applications and demonstrates how seemingly minor implementation flaws can create significant security risks in graphical server environments.