CVE-2005-0120 in helvis
Summary
by MITRE
helvis 1.8h2_1 and earlier allows local users to delete arbitrary files via the elvprsv setuid program.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/07/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-0120 affects helvis version 1.8h2_1 and earlier, representing a critical security flaw in the elvprsv setuid program that enables local users to perform unauthorized file deletion operations. This issue stems from improper privilege management within the application's file handling mechanisms, creating a dangerous condition where unprivileged users can leverage the setuid binary to execute destructive actions against arbitrary files on the system. The vulnerability exists due to insufficient input validation and inadequate access control measures within the program's file manipulation functions, allowing attackers to craft specific inputs that bypass normal file system permissions and execute deletion commands with elevated privileges.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the setuid bit functionality that grants the elvprsv program elevated system privileges during execution. When local users invoke the program with crafted parameters, the application fails to properly sanitize user inputs before processing file operations, leading to command injection or direct file manipulation capabilities. This flaw directly relates to CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, and CWE-73, which addresses external control of file name or path. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic privilege escalation vector where local attackers can leverage the setuid program to delete files that would normally require root or administrative permissions to modify or remove.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to system integrity and data availability, particularly in multi-user environments where the helvis application is installed. Attackers could exploit this weakness to remove critical system files, configuration data, or user documents, potentially leading to system instability, data loss, or complete service disruption. The impact extends beyond simple file deletion as it undermines the fundamental security model of the operating system by allowing unauthorized privilege escalation through legitimate system utilities. Organizations running affected versions of helvis face potential compromise of their entire file system integrity, as the vulnerability enables attackers to systematically remove files and potentially establish persistent access through file manipulation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate remediation through software updates to versions that address the privilege escalation flaw. System administrators should verify that the elvprsv program is not running with unnecessary setuid privileges or that appropriate input validation has been implemented. The recommended approach includes disabling the vulnerable setuid functionality entirely, implementing proper input sanitization measures, and conducting comprehensive file system audits to identify any potential damage already caused by exploitation attempts. Additionally, implementing the principle of least privilege for system utilities and ensuring proper file system permissions can help prevent similar vulnerabilities from manifesting in other applications. This vulnerability highlights the importance of regular security assessments and the need for proper privilege management in system utilities, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers privilege escalation through local exploitation of system utilities. Organizations should also consider implementing file integrity monitoring solutions to detect unauthorized file deletion activities and maintain audit logs that can help identify exploitation attempts.