CVE-2005-1270 in Rootkit Hunter
Summary
by MITRE
The (1) check_update.sh and (2) rkhunter script in Rootkit Hunter before 1.2.3-r1 create temporary files with predictable file names, which allows local users to overwrite arbitrary files via a symlink attack.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/01/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-1270 affects Rootkit Hunter versions prior to 1.2.3-r1 and specifically targets two critical scripts: check_update.sh and rkhunter. This weakness represents a classic race condition and symlink attack scenario that exploits predictable temporary file naming conventions within the software's update verification process. The flaw allows local attackers with minimal privileges to escalate their access by manipulating temporary files created during the script execution, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or privilege escalation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the predictable naming of temporary files generated by the Rootkit Hunter scripts during system integrity checks. When these scripts execute, they create temporary files using hardcoded or easily guessable names without proper randomization or secure temporary file creation mechanisms. This predictable naming scheme enables attackers to establish symbolic links with the same names before the legitimate scripts attempt to create these files, effectively redirecting the scripts to modify attacker-controlled locations. The vulnerability directly maps to CWE-377: Insecure Temporary File and CWE-378: Poor Randomization, both of which are categorized under insecure system design practices that expose applications to privilege escalation attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file overwrite capabilities, as it provides a pathway for local users to potentially compromise system integrity and security controls. Attackers can leverage this weakness to modify critical system files, inject malicious code into the update verification process, or escalate privileges to gain elevated system access. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it operates within the legitimate system update verification framework, making it difficult to detect through standard security monitoring. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007: Command and Scripting Interpreter: Python, as it exploits legitimate system scripts to achieve unauthorized modifications, and T1548.001: Abuse Elevation Control Mechanism: Setuid and Setgid, when the vulnerable scripts are executed with elevated privileges.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-1270 require immediate patching of Rootkit Hunter installations to version 1.2.3-r1 or later, which implements secure temporary file creation mechanisms. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive audits of all system scripts that create temporary files, ensuring that proper secure file creation practices are implemented using functions like mkstemp() or equivalent secure temporary file creation methods. Additional defensive measures include implementing proper file system permissions, monitoring for unauthorized symbolic link creation in temporary directories, and conducting regular security assessments of system integrity verification tools. The remediation process should also involve reviewing and updating the broader security posture of systems running Rootkit Hunter, as this vulnerability highlights potential gaps in secure coding practices and temporary file management within system security tools.