Apple Mac OS X passwd file create

macosx-passwd-file-create (25272) The risk level is classified as MediumMedium Risk

Description:

Mac OS X and Mac OS X Server could allow a local attacker to create arbitrary world-writable files caused by a vulnerability in the /usr/bin/passwd binary. passwd fails to verify user permissions prior to the creation of a file and fails to set permissions on files created. A local attacker could exploit this vulnerability to create arbitrary root files and gain root privileges on the system.


Consequences:

File Manipulation

Remedy:

Apply Security Update 2006-001, available from the Apple Security Update 2006-001. See References.

References:

  • Apple Security Update 2006-001: About Security Update 2006-001.
  • iDEFENSE Security Advisory: 03.02.06: Apple Mac OS X passwd Arbitrary Binary File Creation/Modification.
  • BID-16907: Apple Mac OS X Security Update 2006-001 Multiple Vulnerabilities
  • BID-16910: Apple Mac OS X Directory Services Passwd Privilege Escalation Vulnerabilities
  • CVE-2005-2713: passwd in Directory Services in Mac OS X 10.3.x before 10.3.9 and 10.4.x before 10.4.5 allows local users to create arbitrary world-writable files as root by specifying an alternate file in the password database option.
  • OSVDB ID: 23646: Mac OS X passwd Database Option Arbitrary File Creation
  • SA19064: Mac OS X Security Update Fixes Multiple Vulnerabilities
  • VUPEN/ADV-2006-0791: Apple Mac OS X Code Execution and Denial of Service Vulnerabilities

Platforms Affected:

  • Apple Mac OS X 10.3.9
  • Apple Mac OS X 10.4.5
  • Apple Mac OS X Server 10.3.9
  • Apple Mac OS X Server 10.4.5

Reported:

Mar 01, 2006

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