The software, when opening a file or directory, does not
sufficiently handle when the name is associated with a hard link to a target
that is outside of the intended control sphere. This could allow an attacker to
cause the software to operate on unauthorized files.
Extended Description
Failure for a system to check for hard links can result in vulnerability
to different types of attacks. For example, an attacker can escalate their
privileges if a file used by a privileged program is replaced with a hard
link to a sensitive file (e.g. AUTOEXEC.BAT). When the process opens the
file, the attacker can assume the privileges of that process, or prevent the
program from accurately processing data.
Follow the principle of least privilege when assigning access rights
to files. Denying access to a file can prevent an attacker from
replacing that file with a link to a sensitive file. Ensure good
compartmentalization in the system to provide protected areas that can
be trusted.
Description
