CVE-2005-0991 in AIX
Summary
by MITRE
rc.boot in ibm aix 5.1 5.2 and 5.3 does not "use a secure location for temporary files" which allows local users to have an unknown impact probably by overwriting files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/14/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-0991 affects the rc.boot script in IBM AIX versions 5.1, 5.2, and 5.3, representing a critical security flaw in system initialization processes. This issue stems from the improper handling of temporary files during boot operations, creating a significant attack surface for local adversaries who can exploit the insecure file handling mechanisms. The vulnerability specifically targets the temporary file creation and management practices within the boot script execution environment, where temporary files are stored in locations that lack proper security controls.
The technical flaw manifests in the rc.boot script's failure to utilize secure temporary file locations, which directly violates established security principles for temporary file management. According to CWE-377, insecure temporary file handling represents a well-documented weakness that can lead to various security exploits including privilege escalation and system compromise. The vulnerability allows local users to potentially overwrite critical system files or manipulate temporary files that are subsequently processed by the boot system, creating opportunities for malicious code injection or system disruption. This insecure practice enables attackers to gain unauthorized access to system resources and potentially escalate privileges within the local environment.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file overwriting capabilities, as it can potentially allow local users to manipulate system boot processes and compromise the integrity of the operating system. Attackers could leverage this weakness to inject malicious code into the boot sequence, modify critical system components, or disrupt normal system operations. The unknown impact designation reflects the broad potential consequences that could arise from temporary file manipulation, including but not limited to privilege escalation, denial of service conditions, and unauthorized system access. This vulnerability particularly affects systems where local user access is granted, making it a significant concern for environments with multiple users or shared system resources.
Security mitigations for CVE-2005-0991 should focus on implementing proper temporary file handling procedures within the rc.boot script and related system initialization processes. Organizations should ensure that temporary files are created in secure locations with appropriate permissions and that the system employs proper file locking mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access or modification. The remediation approach should include updating to patched versions of IBM AIX where available, implementing proper temporary file directory permissions, and conducting thorough security reviews of system initialization scripts. According to ATT&CK framework category T1059.003 for Scripting, this vulnerability represents a potential vector for executing malicious code during system boot phases, making it particularly dangerous for persistent threats. System administrators should also consider implementing monitoring solutions to detect unauthorized temporary file modifications and establish proper access controls to prevent local users from exploiting this weakness. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices in system initialization scripts and highlights the need for comprehensive security testing of boot processes to prevent exploitation by local adversaries.