CVE-2014-4038 in ppc64-diag
Summary
by MITRE
ppc64-diag 2.6.1 allows local users to overwrite arbitrary files via a symlink attack related to (1) rtas_errd/diag_support.c and /tmp/get_dt_files, (2) scripts/ppc64_diag_mkrsrc and /tmp/diagSEsnap/snapH.tar.gz, or (3) lpd/test/lpd_ela_test.sh and /var/tmp/ras.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/24/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-4038 affects the ppc64-diag package version 2.6.1 and represents a significant local privilege escalation risk through symbolic link manipulation attacks. This flaw exists within the diagnostic utilities designed for powerpc64 architecture systems, specifically targeting temporary file creation processes that lack proper security validation mechanisms. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and inadequate file handling procedures during the execution of diagnostic scripts, creating opportunities for local attackers to manipulate system files through carefully crafted symbolic link attacks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability manifests in three distinct attack vectors that exploit weak temporary file creation practices. The first vector involves the rtas_errd/diag_support.c component where the /tmp/get_dt_files temporary file is created without proper security checks, allowing attackers to establish symbolic links that redirect file operations to arbitrary locations. The second attack path targets scripts/ppc64_diag_mkrsrc which creates /tmp/diagSEsnap/snapH.tar.gz without adequate permissions or validation, enabling symlink-based file overwrites. The third vector operates through lpd/test/lpd_ela_test.sh that writes to /var/tmp/ras, again lacking proper security controls. These attack vectors align with CWE-377 vulnerability category, specifically addressing insecure temporary file creation practices and improper file permissions that enable privilege escalation through file system manipulation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file overwrites to potentially enable full system compromise when combined with other attack vectors. Local attackers can leverage these weaknesses to modify critical system files, inject malicious code into diagnostic processes, or escalate privileges to root access level. The attack requires local system access but does not necessitate network connectivity, making it particularly dangerous in environments where physical access or user accounts are compromised. The vulnerability affects systems running powerpc64 architecture with the affected diagnostic package installed, and the impact is amplified in enterprise environments where diagnostic tools are frequently executed with elevated privileges.
Security mitigations for CVE-2014-4038 should focus on implementing proper temporary file handling mechanisms that avoid creating files in world-writable directories without proper security validation. System administrators should immediately update to patched versions of the ppc64-diag package or implement restrictive file permissions on affected temporary directories. The remediation process involves ensuring that all temporary file creation operations use secure methods such as creating files with restrictive permissions and verifying that symbolic links do not exist at target locations before file operations. Organizations should also implement monitoring for unauthorized file modifications in critical temporary directories and consider applying the principle of least privilege to diagnostic script execution. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices for system utilities and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for execution through command and scripting interpreter while also mapping to T1548.001 for privilege escalation through local exploit techniques.