CVE-2005-0465 in IRIX
Summary
by MITRE
gr_osview in sgi irix does not drop privileges before opening files which allows local users to overwrite arbitrary files via the -s option.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/09/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2005-0465 affects the gr_osview utility within the SGI IRIX operating system, representing a privilege escalation flaw that stems from improper privilege handling during file operations. This issue specifically manifests when the gr_osview program processes the -s command-line option, which is designed to specify a file path for viewing or processing. The core technical flaw lies in the program's failure to drop elevated privileges before performing file operations, creating a dangerous condition where local users can manipulate the system's file access behavior.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it enables local attackers to exploit the privilege escalation weakness and overwrite arbitrary files on the system. When the -s option is utilized, the program continues to operate with elevated privileges, allowing malicious users to specify file paths that result in unintended file overwrites or modifications. This vulnerability directly relates to CWE-276, which addresses incorrect permissions for critical resources, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers privilege escalation through local exploitation. The flaw essentially provides attackers with a mechanism to bypass normal file access controls and modify system-critical files.
The security implications extend beyond simple file overwrites, as this vulnerability can be leveraged to compromise system integrity and potentially escalate privileges further. Attackers can exploit this weakness to replace critical system files with malicious counterparts, potentially leading to persistent backdoors or complete system compromise. The vulnerability affects systems running SGI IRIX operating systems and represents a fundamental flaw in privilege management within the gr_osview utility. Organizations with IRIX systems should immediately implement mitigations including privilege dropping mechanisms, file access controls, and system monitoring to detect unauthorized file modifications.
The recommended remediation approach involves updating the gr_osview utility to properly drop privileges before file operations, ensuring that all file access occurs with minimal required privileges. System administrators should also implement proper file permissions and access controls, while monitoring for suspicious file modification patterns. This vulnerability highlights the critical importance of privilege separation in system utilities and demonstrates how improper privilege handling can create significant security risks for local users. The issue underscores the need for comprehensive security testing of system utilities and proper adherence to security best practices including the principle of least privilege. Organizations should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments of similar utilities and ensure that all programs properly implement privilege dropping mechanisms before performing file operations to prevent similar exploitation scenarios.