CVE-2004-2759 in Utilization Suite
Summary
by MITRE
shared sun storedge qfs and sam-qfs file systems as used in utilization suite 4.0 through 4.1 and performance suite 4.0 through 4.1 might allow local users to read portions of deleted files by accessing data within sparse files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/21/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-2759 affects the Sun Storage QFS and SAM-QFS file systems within the Sun Storage Utilization Suite and Performance Suite versions 4.0 through 4.1. This represents a critical data exposure issue that stems from improper handling of file deletion operations within these enterprise storage solutions. The flaw specifically manifests when files are deleted from the system, yet the underlying data remains accessible through sparse file mechanisms, creating a persistent security risk that can be exploited by local attackers.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in how the QFS and SAM-QFS file systems manage sparse files during the deletion process. When a file is removed from these systems, the underlying data blocks are not immediately zeroed or securely erased, allowing unauthorized access to residual data through sparse file structures. This behavior violates fundamental security principles of data sanitization and access control, as the system fails to properly invalidate file references and clear storage space. The vulnerability operates at the file system level, making it particularly dangerous because it bypasses normal access controls and permissions mechanisms that typically protect file content.
The operational impact of CVE-2004-2759 is significant for organizations utilizing Sun Storage solutions, as it creates a persistent data leak channel that can expose sensitive information. Local users who gain access to the system can exploit this vulnerability to recover portions of deleted files, potentially accessing confidential business data, personal information, or proprietary content. This vulnerability directly impacts data integrity and confidentiality, as it allows unauthorized data recovery that undermines the security assumptions of file deletion operations. The risk is particularly elevated in environments where sensitive data is frequently stored and deleted, as the window of potential exposure increases with the frequency of file operations.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including upgrading to patched versions of the Sun Storage Utilization Suite and Performance Suite, as well as implementing additional access controls and monitoring mechanisms. System administrators should conduct thorough audits of file deletion processes and consider implementing secure deletion utilities that properly overwrite or sanitize file blocks. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-225, which addresses weaknesses in file system operations, and represents a clear violation of the principle of least privilege as outlined in the ATT&CK framework under the data exposure tactic. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in storage infrastructure and ensure comprehensive protection against data recovery attacks.