CVE-2011-1307 in WebSphere Application Server
Summary
by MITRE
The installer in IBM WebSphere Application Server (WAS) before 7.0.0.15 uses 777 permissions for a temporary log directory, which allows local users to have unintended access to log files via standard filesystem operations, a different vulnerability than CVE-2009-1173.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/19/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-1307 affects IBM WebSphere Application Server versions prior to 7.0.0.15 and represents a significant security flaw in the installer component's handling of temporary file permissions. This issue stems from the installer's creation of a temporary log directory with overly permissive 777 permissions, which grants read, write, and execute access to all users on the system. The flaw specifically impacts the installation process where temporary log files are generated, creating a persistent security risk that extends beyond the immediate installation phase.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the installer's failure to properly secure temporary directories through appropriate access control mechanisms. When the installer creates temporary log files with 777 permissions, it essentially provides any local user on the system with complete control over these sensitive log entries. This permission scheme violates fundamental security principles of least privilege and mandatory access controls, allowing unauthorized users to read confidential application data, modify log contents, or potentially inject malicious entries into the logging system. The vulnerability operates at the filesystem level, leveraging standard Unix/Linux permission models where 777 translates to full access for owner, group, and others.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as local users can exploit the overly permissive directory structure to gain insights into the application server's configuration, deployment patterns, and potentially sensitive operational details contained within log files. Attackers could use this access to identify application vulnerabilities, gather intelligence about the target system, or even manipulate log data to obscure their activities or create false audit trails. This vulnerability creates a persistent backdoor for local attackers who may not have direct access to the application server but can leverage the compromised log directory permissions to compromise the system's integrity and confidentiality. The risk is particularly concerning in multi-tenant environments where multiple users share the same system resources.
From a cybersecurity framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-732: Incorrect Permission Assignment for Critical Resource, which specifically addresses situations where critical system resources are assigned incorrect permissions that allow unauthorized access. The issue also maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, where attackers could potentially use the compromised log files to gather information for further exploitation or establish persistence. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including upgrading to IBM WebSphere Application Server 7.0.0.15 or later, manually correcting directory permissions on existing installations, and conducting comprehensive audits of temporary file locations to ensure proper access controls are implemented. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper permission management in installation processes and highlights the need for security awareness throughout the software development lifecycle to prevent such oversights in critical system components.