CVE-2003-1399 in eject
Summary
by MITRE
eject 2.0.10, when installed setuid on systems such as SuSE Linux 7.3, generates different error messages depending on whether a specified file exists or not, which allows local users to obtain sensitive information.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/16/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2003-1399 affects the eject utility version 2.0.10 when installed with setuid privileges on SuSE Linux 7.3 systems. This represents a classic information disclosure flaw that exploits the inconsistent error handling behavior of the setuid program to reveal file system information. The vulnerability stems from the program's design where it provides different error messages based on file existence, creating a side-channel information leak that can be exploited by local attackers.
The technical flaw manifests through the setuid eject utility's improper error handling mechanism. When the utility encounters a file operation, it generates distinct error messages depending on whether the target file exists or not. This differential behavior creates an information disclosure channel that allows local users to determine the existence of specific files on the system. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates with elevated privileges due to the setuid bit, yet the information disclosure occurs through error message manipulation rather than direct privilege escalation.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability enables local attackers to perform reconnaissance activities that would otherwise be restricted. An attacker can systematically test for the existence of files and directories by observing the different error messages returned by the eject utility. This information disclosure capability can be leveraged to map out the file system structure, identify sensitive files, and potentially discover other vulnerabilities. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires no special privileges beyond local access and can be automated to gather comprehensive system information.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-200, which describes information exposure through error messages, and demonstrates the risks associated with improper error handling in privileged programs. It also relates to ATT&CK technique T1083, which covers file and directory discovery, as the vulnerability enables attackers to enumerate system files through indirect means. The issue represents a fundamental flaw in program design where error handling should not leak system information, particularly in setuid contexts where privilege separation is critical for security.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include removing the setuid bit from the eject utility, updating to a patched version of the eject package, and implementing proper error handling that does not disclose file system information. System administrators should also consider implementing file system access controls and monitoring for unusual patterns of error message generation from privileged utilities. Regular security audits should verify that setuid programs do not exhibit information disclosure behaviors and that error handling follows secure coding practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in other system utilities.