CVE-2015-3149 in Red Hat
Summary
by MITRE
The Hotspot component in OpenJDK8 as packaged in Red Hat Enterprise Linux 6 and 7 allows local users to write to arbitrary files via a symlink attack.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/14/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-3149 resides within the Hotspot component of OpenJDK8, specifically affecting Red Hat Enterprise Linux versions 6 and 7. This issue represents a significant security flaw that enables local attackers to exploit file system permissions through symbolic link manipulation. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of temporary files during the Java runtime execution process, creating an opportunity for privilege escalation and unauthorized file modification. The Hotspot component is responsible for the Just-In-Time compilation and execution of Java bytecode, making it a critical element in the Java virtual machine's operation. When the system processes certain Java applications, it creates temporary files that are susceptible to symlink attacks, allowing malicious users to redirect file operations to arbitrary locations within the file system.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a carefully crafted symlink attack that leverages the predictable naming patterns of temporary files created by the Hotspot component. Attackers can create symbolic links in directories where the Java runtime expects to find temporary files, thereby intercepting file operations that should target legitimate temporary locations. This flaw falls under the category of improper file handling and privilege escalation, with the attack vector specifically targeting the file system permissions model of the Linux operating system. The vulnerability is classified as a local privilege escalation issue because it requires local system access but can potentially allow an attacker to write to files that would normally be protected or restricted. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it operates at the system level within the Java runtime environment, where it can potentially bypass standard file permission checks and access sensitive system files.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-3149 extends beyond simple file modification capabilities, as it can enable attackers to compromise the integrity of the Java runtime environment and potentially escalate privileges to higher system levels. Local users who exploit this vulnerability can manipulate critical system files, modify Java application configurations, or even inject malicious code into the runtime environment. This vulnerability directly impacts the security posture of Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems by creating an attack surface that can be leveraged for persistent access or further exploitation. The attack requires minimal privileges but can result in significant system compromise, making it particularly concerning for enterprise environments where Java applications are extensively used. Organizations running affected versions of Red Hat Enterprise Linux are exposed to potential data integrity breaches and system compromise, especially in environments where Java applications process sensitive information or where multiple users have local access to the system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-3149 focus on both immediate patching and operational hardening measures. The most effective solution involves applying the security patches released by Red Hat that address the specific symlink handling issues within the Hotspot component. System administrators should prioritize updating their Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems to versions that include the patched OpenJDK8 implementation. Additionally, organizations can implement file system hardening measures such as restricting write permissions in directories where temporary files are created, implementing proper file access controls, and monitoring for suspicious symlink creation patterns. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-377 and CWE-378 categories related to insecure temporary file handling and improper temporary file permissions. From an adversarial perspective, this vulnerability maps to ATT&CK technique T1068, which involves exploiting local system privileges to escalate access. Organizations should also consider implementing privileged access management controls and regular security audits to detect and prevent exploitation attempts, particularly in environments where Java applications are deployed with elevated privileges or where multiple users have local system access.