CVE-2007-1370 in Zend
Summary
by MITRE
Zend Platform 2.2.3 and earlier has incorrect ownership for scd.sh and certain other files, which allows local users to gain root privileges by modifying the files. NOTE: this only occurs when safe_mode and open_basedir are disabled; other settings require leverage for other vulnerabilities.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/26/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-1370 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw within Zend Platform versions 2.2.3 and earlier. This security weakness stems from improper file ownership configurations that create exploitable conditions for local attackers. The primary affected files include scd.sh along with other related components that are incorrectly configured with elevated permissions. The vulnerability specifically targets systems where php safe_mode and open_basedir restrictions are disabled, creating an environment where local users can manipulate these improperly owned files to achieve root privileges. This represents a classic case of insecure file permissions that directly violates fundamental security principles of least privilege and proper access control.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the fundamental principle of file ownership and permission management within Unix-like operating systems. When safe_mode and open_basedir are disabled in php configurations, the platform operates with reduced security restrictions that allow for broader file system access. The scd.sh script and associated files are configured with ownership that permits modification by non-privileged users, creating a direct path for privilege escalation. Attackers can modify these files to inject malicious code or alter execution paths, effectively gaining root access to the system. This flaw operates at the operating system level rather than the application level, making it particularly dangerous as it bypasses application-specific security controls.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-1370 extends beyond simple privilege escalation to represent a significant threat to system integrity and confidentiality. Once an attacker achieves root privileges through this vulnerability, they gain complete control over the affected system, including the ability to install backdoors, modify system files, access all user data, and potentially compromise network infrastructure. The vulnerability's requirement for disabled safe_mode and open_basedir settings means that organizations with properly configured php security settings remain protected, but those with relaxed security configurations face immediate and severe risk. This vulnerability demonstrates how seemingly minor configuration issues in system components can create catastrophic security implications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-1370 require immediate attention to both the specific file ownership issues and broader php security configurations. The primary recommendation involves ensuring that all Zend Platform files maintain proper ownership with root or designated system users, while implementing restrictive file permissions that prevent unauthorized modification. Organizations should also enforce proper php security settings including enabling safe_mode and open_basedir restrictions where possible. Additionally, regular security audits should verify file ownership and permissions across all system components, particularly those related to web application platforms. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-732, which addresses inadequate permissions for critical resources, and represents a clear violation of the principle of least privilege that forms the foundation of secure system design. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under privilege escalation techniques, specifically focusing on permissions and access control mechanisms that attackers can exploit to gain elevated system access.