CVE-2003-1528 in Siemens Networker
Summary
by MITRE
nsr_shutdown in Fujitsu Siemens NetWorker 6.0 allows local users to overwrite arbitrary files via a symlink attack on the nsrsh[PID] temporary file.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/05/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2003-1528 resides within the Fujitsu Siemens NetWorker 6.0 backup software, specifically within the nsr_shutdown function. This flaw represents a classic symlink attack vector that enables local users to manipulate temporary file operations and potentially overwrite arbitrary files on the system. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of temporary files during the shutdown process of the NetWorker service, creating a window of opportunity for privilege escalation and file manipulation attacks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the creation of symbolic links that point to sensitive system files or directories. When the nsr_shutdown function executes, it creates temporary files with predictable naming patterns such as nsrsh[PID] where PID represents the process identifier. Local attackers can exploit this predictability by creating malicious symbolic links with the same names before the legitimate temporary file creation occurs, effectively tricking the system into writing data to unintended locations. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of race condition attacks where timing is critical for successful exploitation.
The operational impact of CVE-2003-1528 extends beyond simple file overwriting capabilities, as it can potentially allow attackers to modify critical system files, configuration data, or even inject malicious code into the backup infrastructure. This vulnerability directly affects the integrity and confidentiality of backup operations, potentially compromising the entire backup ecosystem. Attackers could leverage this weakness to escalate privileges, modify backup schedules, or corrupt backup data, leading to significant operational disruptions and potential data loss scenarios.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-377 insecure temporary file handling and CWE-367 time-of-check to time-of-use race conditions, both of which are well-documented weaknesses in software security practices. The attack pattern associated with this vulnerability corresponds to techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1059 command and scripting interpreter and T1566 credential access, as local privilege escalation often leads to broader system compromise. Organizations running Fujitsu Siemens NetWorker 6.0 should implement immediate mitigations including updating to patched versions, implementing proper temporary file handling mechanisms, and conducting comprehensive security audits of their backup infrastructure. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of secure coding practices, particularly in enterprise backup solutions where system integrity and data protection are paramount.