CVE-2006-5010 in AIX
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in acctctl in IBM AIX 5.3.0 allows local users to execute arbitrary commands by modifying the path to point to a malicious mkdir program.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/16/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-5010 represents a critical untrusted search path issue within the acctctl utility of IBM AIX 5.3.0 operating system. This flaw resides in the way the system handles path resolution for command execution, creating a privilege escalation vector that can be exploited by local attackers. The vulnerability specifically affects the acctctl utility which is responsible for managing accounting files and system resource usage tracking on AIX systems. When the utility processes user input or executes auxiliary programs, it fails to properly validate or sanitize the search paths, allowing malicious actors to manipulate the execution environment.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the improper handling of environment variables and system path resolution within the acctctl utility. When the utility attempts to execute the mkdir command as part of its normal operations, it relies on the system PATH variable without implementing proper validation mechanisms. This behavior creates an opportunity for attackers to place a malicious mkdir binary in a directory that appears earlier in the PATH than the legitimate system directory. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-426 as an Untrusted Search Path, which specifically addresses situations where applications use untrusted input to construct search paths without proper validation or sanitization. The flaw demonstrates a classic case of insecure direct object reference where the system does not properly control the execution flow of auxiliary programs.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it allows local users to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. This represents a significant threat to system integrity and confidentiality, particularly in multi-user environments where different privilege levels exist. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain root access, modify system files, install backdoors, or perform other malicious activities that compromise the entire system. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it requires no special privileges to exploit, making it accessible to any user with local access to the system. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1068 - Exploitation for Privilege Escalation and T1548.001 - Abuse Elevation Control Mechanism, as it allows attackers to bypass normal privilege controls and escalate their access level.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-5010 should focus on both immediate patching and operational hardening measures. The most effective solution involves applying the official IBM security patches that address the untrusted search path implementation in acctctl. Organizations should also implement proper PATH variable management, ensuring that system directories are positioned at the beginning of the PATH environment variable to prevent malicious binaries from being executed. Additionally, system administrators should conduct regular security audits to identify and remove any unnecessary or potentially compromised binaries from system paths. The vulnerability highlights the importance of implementing principle of least privilege and proper input validation in system utilities. Security monitoring should include detection of unauthorized modifications to system binaries and unusual execution patterns of accounting utilities. Organizations should also consider implementing mandatory access controls and file integrity monitoring solutions to detect potential exploitation attempts and maintain system integrity against similar vulnerabilities.