CVE-2017-6512 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2017-6512 affecting Perl's File-Path module. Attackers exploit a race condition to alter file permissions, risking unauthorized access. Find mitigation steps here.
CVE-2017-6512 was published on June 1, 2017, and affects the File-Path module in Perl. The vulnerability allows attackers to manipulate file permissions through a race condition. Here's what you need to know about this CVE.
Understanding CVE-2017-6512
This CVE involves a race condition in the rmtree and remove_tree functions of the File-Path module in Perl, enabling attackers to modify file permissions.
What is CVE-2017-6512?
The rmtree and remove_tree functions in the File-Path module for Perl before version 2.13 have a race condition. Attackers can exploit this flaw to alter the mode of any file by leveraging vectors that take advantage of directory permission logic.
The Impact of CVE-2017-6512
The vulnerability allows malicious actors to change the permissions of files, potentially leading to unauthorized access or manipulation of sensitive data.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-6512
This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The race condition in the rmtree and remove_tree functions of the File-Path module in Perl allows attackers to modify file modes through directory-permission logic.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Not applicable
- Vendor: Not applicable
- Versions affected: Not applicable
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit the race condition in the File-Path module to manipulate file permissions, potentially compromising the security of the system.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2017-6512 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update the File-Path module to version 2.13 or above to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Monitor file permissions and access controls to detect any unauthorized changes.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict unnecessary file permissions.
- Regularly audit and review file permissions to ensure they align with security policies.
Patching and Updates
- Apply patches provided by Perl to address the race condition in the File-Path module.