CVE-2006-1247 in AIX
Summary
by MITRE
rm_mlcache_file in bos.rte.install in AIX 5.1.0 through 5.3.0 allows local users to overwrite arbitrary files via a symlink attack on temporary files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/22/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-1247 resides within the bos.rte.install component of IBM AIX operating systems version 5.1.0 through 5.3.0, specifically affecting the rm_mlcache_file function. This flaw represents a classic symlink attack vector that exploits insecure temporary file handling practices. The vulnerability occurs during the installation process where the system creates temporary files without proper security checks, allowing local attackers to manipulate the file system through symbolic link manipulation. The root cause aligns with CWE-377, which addresses insecure temporary file creation, and CWE-378, dealing with creation of temporary files with insecure permissions. Attackers can leverage this weakness to overwrite arbitrary files on the system, potentially leading to privilege escalation or system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the installation utility's failure to properly validate or secure temporary file creation processes. When the rm_mlcache_file function executes, it creates temporary files in predictable locations without sufficient permission checks or atomic operations. This insecure practice enables attackers to establish symbolic links in the temporary file paths before the legitimate file creation occurs, causing the system to write data to attacker-controlled locations instead of the intended target. The flaw operates under the principle of time-of-check to time-of-use race conditions, where the system checks for file existence and then uses the file without revalidation, as described in the ATT&CK framework under technique T1059.007 for execution through command and scripting interpreter.
The operational impact of CVE-2006-1247 extends beyond simple file overwrites, as local users can potentially escalate privileges or disrupt system operations through careful exploitation. An attacker with low-privilege access could manipulate system files, modify installation caches, or overwrite critical configuration files that influence system behavior. The vulnerability affects the integrity of the installation process and can be leveraged to corrupt the software installation environment, potentially leading to denial of service or unauthorized system modifications. This weakness particularly impacts systems where regular users have access to installation utilities or where the system's security model is not properly enforced. The exploitation requires local access and knowledge of the installation process, but the potential for system compromise makes it a significant concern for AIX administrators managing multiple user environments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-1247 should focus on both immediate patching and operational security improvements. IBM released security patches for AIX 5.1.0 through 5.3.0 that address the insecure temporary file handling in the bos.rte.install component. System administrators should prioritize applying these patches to all affected AIX systems, as the vulnerability has been known since 2006 and remains exploitable on unpatched systems. Additionally, implementing proper file system permissions, using secure temporary file creation methods such as mkstemp, and ensuring atomic file operations can prevent similar vulnerabilities. Network segmentation and privilege separation practices should be enforced to limit local user access to installation utilities. The ATT&CK framework suggests monitoring for suspicious file system activities and implementing process monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should include checks for insecure temporary file handling practices across all system components to prevent similar issues from arising in future software releases.