Linux setserial initscript symlink
| linux-setserial-initscript-symlink (7177) |  Medium Risk |
Description:
The Setserial package in some Linux distributions could allow a local attacker to launch a symlink attack, caused by a vulnerability with the initscript in the documentation directory. If the setserial initscript is used, it creates a predictable file name in the /tmp directory. A local attacker can use this vulnerability to create a symbolic link in the /tmp directory to overwrite arbitrary files in the system, and possibly gain elevated privileges. The initscript executes with root privileges during bootup.
Consequences:
File Manipulation
Remedy:
For Red Hat Linux:
The setserial package is not installed by default. To disable the setserial initscript, use the following command:
/sbin/chkconfig serial off
References:
- SourceForge.net: setserial.
- BID-3367: RedHat Setserial Init Script Predictable Temporary File Vulnerability
- CVE-2001-1383: initscript in setserial 2.17-4 and earlier uses predictable temporary file names, which could allow local users to conduct unauthorized operations on files.
- OSVDB ID: 5424: setserial Init Script /tmp Symlink
Platforms Affected:
- RedHat Linux
- setserial setserial 2.17-4
Reported:
Sep 12, 2001
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