CVE-2004-0107 in sysstat
Summary
by MITRE
The (1) post and (2) trigger scripts in sysstat 4.0.7 and earlier allow local users to overwrite arbitrary files via symlink attacks on temporary files, a different vulnerability than CVE-2004-0108.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/29/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-0107 affects the sysstat package version 4.0.7 and earlier, specifically targeting the post and trigger scripts that are part of the system monitoring utilities. This issue represents a classic symlink attack vulnerability that exploits improper handling of temporary files during script execution. The flaw occurs when these scripts create temporary files without adequately validating their existence or ownership, allowing local attackers to manipulate the file system through symbolic link manipulation. The vulnerability is distinct from CVE-2004-0108, which addresses different aspects of the same software package's security posture.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the insecure creation of temporary files within the post and trigger scripts. When these scripts execute, they often create temporary files in predictable locations without proper atomic file creation mechanisms. An attacker can establish symbolic links in the same directories where these temporary files are expected to be created, effectively redirecting the script's file operations to arbitrary locations on the file system. This allows malicious users to overwrite or modify files that they would normally not have permission to access directly, potentially leading to privilege escalation or unauthorized system modifications. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-377, which addresses insecure temporary file handling, and demonstrates the principle of least privilege violation through improper file system access control.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file overwriting capabilities, as it can be leveraged for more sophisticated attacks within the target system. Local users who can execute the affected scripts gain the ability to manipulate system-critical files, potentially compromising system integrity and confidentiality. Attackers might exploit this vulnerability to modify system logs, inject malicious code into monitoring processes, or establish persistent backdoors through the manipulation of temporary files used by sysstat components. The vulnerability also presents a risk to system availability, as attackers could overwrite essential system files or configuration data, leading to service disruption. From an attack chain perspective, this vulnerability maps to multiple ATT&CK tactics including privilege escalation and persistence, as it enables attackers to gain elevated privileges and maintain access to compromised systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-0107 require immediate patching of the sysstat package to version 4.0.8 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for secure temporary file handling. System administrators should also implement proper file system permissions and access controls to limit the ability of local users to manipulate symbolic links in critical directories. The remediation process should include auditing temporary file creation patterns within the affected scripts and implementing atomic file creation techniques that prevent symlink race conditions. Organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify other instances of similar insecure temporary file handling within their system utilities and applications, as this pattern of vulnerability is commonly found in legacy software implementations. Additionally, implementing proper file system monitoring and alerting mechanisms can help detect suspicious file system activities that may indicate exploitation attempts of this type of vulnerability.