CVE-2005-3289 in AIX
Summary
by MITRE
lscfg in ibm aix 5.2 and 5.3 does not create temporary files securely which allows local users to corrupt /etc/passwd and possibly other system files via the trace file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/06/2021
The vulnerability described in CVE-2005-3289 represents a critical security flaw in the lscfg utility distributed with IBM AIX versions 5.2 and 5.3. This issue stems from insecure temporary file creation practices that enable local attackers to manipulate system files through the utility's trace functionality. The vulnerability specifically affects the lscfg command which is used to display configuration information about system hardware and software components. When the utility executes with tracing enabled, it creates temporary files without proper security measures, creating opportunities for privilege escalation and system compromise. This flaw directly violates fundamental security principles regarding temporary file handling and privilege management in Unix-like operating systems.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the lscfg utility's failure to properly secure temporary file creation processes during trace operations. When the utility generates trace output files, it creates temporary files in predictable locations without adequate permissions or secure file creation mechanisms. This insecure practice allows local users to potentially manipulate the temporary file creation process, leading to the corruption of critical system files including /etc/passwd. The vulnerability operates at the privilege level of the executing user, meaning that a local attacker can exploit this weakness to gain elevated privileges or disrupt system integrity. This type of flaw falls under the category of insecure temporary file handling as classified by CWE-377, specifically CWE-378 which addresses the creation of temporary files with insecure permissions and predictable names.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file corruption to potentially enable complete system compromise through privilege escalation attacks. Local users who can execute the lscfg command with tracing enabled can manipulate the temporary file creation process to overwrite critical system files such as /etc/passwd, /etc/shadow, or other configuration files that control user authentication and system access. This capability allows attackers to modify user accounts, create backdoor access, or otherwise subvert system security controls. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where local access is possible, as it provides a path for attackers to escalate privileges without requiring external network access or complex exploitation techniques. From an operational security perspective, this vulnerability creates a persistent threat that can be exploited repeatedly, making it a high-priority concern for system administrators.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of affected AIX systems to the latest security updates from IBM, which would address the insecure temporary file creation practices in the lscfg utility. System administrators should also implement monitoring of temporary file creation patterns and trace file generation to detect potential exploitation attempts. The recommended approach includes disabling unnecessary trace functionality when using lscfg commands, implementing proper file permissions on temporary directories, and conducting regular security audits of system utilities. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing privilege separation mechanisms and ensuring that only authorized users have access to execute system configuration utilities that may be vulnerable to such attacks. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices in system utilities and highlights the need for comprehensive security testing of administrative tools. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under privilege escalation techniques, specifically targeting the T1068 entry for "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation" through insecure file handling mechanisms. Organizations should also consider implementing mandatory access controls and regular security assessments to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced in future system updates or custom applications.