Apache HTTP server check_forensic symlink attack

apache-checkforensic-symlink (18993) The risk level is classified as MediumMedium Risk

Description:

Apache HTTP server could allow a local attacker to launch a symlink attack. The check_forensic script creates insecure temporary files. A local attacker could use this vulnerability to create symbolic links from a temporary file to overwrite arbitrary files on the system with user privileges.

Platforms Affected:

  • Apache, HTTP Server 1.3.31
  • Canonical, Ubuntu 4.10

Remedy:

For Ubuntu Linux:
Upgrade to the latest apache-utils package (1.3.31-6ubuntu0.4. or later), as listed in USN-65-1 January 19, 2005 for more information. See References.

For other distributions:
Contact your vendor for upgrade or patch information.

Consequences:

File Manipulation

References:

  • BID-12308: Apache Utilities Insecure Temporary File Creation Vulnerability
  • CVE-2004-1387: The check_forensic script in apache-utils package 1.3.31 allows local users to overwrite or create arbitrary files via a symlink attack on temporary files.
  • SA13925: Apache check_forensic Script Insecure Temporary File Creation
  • USN-65-1: Apache utility script vulnerability

Reported:

Jan 20, 2005

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