CVE-2011-0995 in rubygem-sqlite3
Summary
by MITRE
The sqlite3-ruby gem in the rubygem-sqlite3 package before 1.2.4-0.5.1 in SUSE Linux Enterprise (SLE) 11 SP1 uses weak permissions for unspecified files, which allows local users to gain privileges via unknown vectors.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/26/2025
The sqlite3-ruby gem vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-0995 represents a significant security weakness in the rubygem-sqlite3 package distribution within SUSE Linux Enterprise 11 Service Pack 1. This vulnerability stems from the improper handling of file permissions during the gem installation process, creating potential privilege escalation paths for local attackers. The issue affects systems where the sqlite3-ruby gem is installed and executed, particularly within environments where multiple users share the same system resources. The weak permissions are not explicitly defined in the vulnerability description, but they typically involve temporary files, configuration artifacts, or database files that are created with overly permissive access controls. This flaw falls under the category of improper file permissions as classified by CWE-732, which specifically addresses inadequate permissions that allow unauthorized access to system resources.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the rubygem-sqlite3 package creating files with insufficient access controls that could be manipulated by local users to gain elevated privileges. When the gem executes database operations, it may generate temporary files or database locks that are created with world-readable or world-writable permissions. Attackers can exploit this by creating malicious files or intercepting file operations to execute arbitrary code with higher privileges than initially intended. The vulnerability operates through unspecified vectors, indicating that multiple attack paths may exist depending on the system configuration and the specific execution context of the gem. This type of privilege escalation vector aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers privilege escalation through local exploitation of system vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple local privilege escalation, as it can compromise the integrity and confidentiality of applications relying on SQLite databases through ruby applications. Systems running ruby applications with sqlite3 integration become vulnerable to unauthorized data access, modification, or deletion. The vulnerability affects not only individual user accounts but also system-wide database operations, potentially allowing attackers to manipulate application data or gain access to sensitive information stored within SQLite databases. Organizations using SUSE Linux Enterprise 11 SP1 with ruby applications may face significant security risks if this vulnerability remains unpatched, particularly in environments where multiple users share the same system resources and where applications process sensitive data.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-0995 should focus on immediate patching of the rubygem-sqlite3 package to version 1.2.4-0.5.1 or later, which contains the necessary permission fixes. System administrators should conduct comprehensive audits of existing installations to identify any systems running vulnerable versions of the gem and ensure proper file permissions are enforced during gem installation. Additionally, implementing proper access control measures through file system permissions, utilizing secure temporary file creation practices, and monitoring for unauthorized file modifications can help reduce the attack surface. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of regular security updates and vulnerability management processes, as it represents a common class of issues where improper file handling creates exploitable conditions. Organizations should consider implementing automated patch management solutions to ensure timely remediation of similar vulnerabilities across their infrastructure.