CVE-2017-1301 in Spectrum Protect
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Spectrum Protect 7.1 and 8.1 could allow a local attacker to launch a symlink attack. IBM Spectrum Protect Backup-archive Client creates temporary files insecurely. A local attacker could exploit this vulnerability by creating a symbolic link from a temporary file to various files on the system, which could allow the attacker to overwrite arbitrary files on the system with elevated privileges. IBM X-Force ID: 125163.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/15/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-1301 affects IBM Spectrum Protect versions 7.1 and 8.1, specifically targeting the backup-archive client component. This security flaw represents a critical path traversal issue that enables local attackers to manipulate temporary file creation processes. The vulnerability stems from insecure temporary file handling within the client application, creating opportunities for symbolic link attacks that can escalate privileges and compromise system integrity.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the backup-archive client's insecure creation of temporary files without proper validation or sanitization of file paths. When the application generates temporary files, it does not adequately verify the existence or ownership of these files, allowing malicious actors to establish symbolic links that point to sensitive system files. This insecure practice follows the common pattern described in CWE-377, where insecure temporary file creation methods provide attackers with opportunities to manipulate file operations. The vulnerability specifically aligns with CWE-59, which addresses improper handling of symbolic links during file operations.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability enables local attackers to escalate privileges and overwrite arbitrary files on the system with elevated permissions. The attack vector requires local system access but provides significant damage potential since the attacker can target critical system files, configuration files, or even other user files. The implications extend beyond simple file overwrites as attackers can potentially modify system binaries, configuration settings, or sensitive data files. This vulnerability particularly affects environments where IBM Spectrum Protect clients are installed with elevated privileges or where local access is possible through various attack vectors.
The attack scenario involves an attacker creating symbolic links in the temporary file directories that the backup-archive client uses, then executing operations that cause the client to write to these locations. This technique allows the attacker to effectively redirect file operations to arbitrary locations, potentially compromising system security. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that IBM Spectrum Protect clients often run with elevated privileges to perform backup operations, making successful exploitation particularly dangerous. The attack pattern aligns with techniques documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1059.007 sub-technique for "Unix Shell" and T1068 for "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation."
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including updating to patched versions of IBM Spectrum Protect, applying the vendor's security patches, and reviewing temporary file handling configurations. System administrators should also consider restricting local access to systems running the affected software and implementing proper file system permissions. Additional defensive measures include monitoring for suspicious symbolic link creation patterns, implementing file integrity monitoring solutions, and conducting regular security assessments of backup systems. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of secure coding practices and proper temporary file handling, particularly in systems that operate with elevated privileges and handle sensitive data operations.