# CVE-1999-0327: SGI syserr local file corruption

Source: https://junglewise.ai/threats/cve-1999-0327-sgi-syserr-local-file-corruption  
Publisher: Junglewise Threat Intelligence, https://junglewise.ai/threats  
Published: 1997-11-01. Updated: 2026-05-10  
License: CC BY 4.0 with a link back

CVE-1999-0327 · Severity: low · CVSS 2.1 · Published 1997-11-01

A vulnerability in the SGI syserr utility allows local users to corrupt system files. This program is typically used for managing system error logs on SGI workstations. An attacker with existing access to the system could exploit this to damage critical files, potentially leading to system instability or data loss.

Technologies: [Sgi Irix](https://junglewise.ai/threats/technologies/irix). Vendors: [Sgi](https://junglewise.ai/threats/vendors/sgi).

## Quick answers

**Is CVE-1999-0327 exploited in the wild?** No. Junglewise Threat Intelligence has no report of CVE-1999-0327 being exploited in the wild.

**How severe is CVE-1999-0327?** Low severity, with a CVSS score of 2.1, published 1 November 1997.

**Which products and versions are affected?** SGI IRIX.

**Is there a fix for CVE-1999-0327?** No fixed version is recorded yet. Check the vendor's advisory in the references below. If you run it, Junglewise drafts a mitigation that fits your setup and applies it once you approve, with senior security engineers behind it.

**How is CVE-1999-0327 attacked?** It is attacked with local access, in an operating system.

**Am I affected by CVE-1999-0327?** Check whether you run Sgi Irix. Junglewise does that check for you around the clock: connect your code, cloud and domains, and it matches new vulnerabilities like this one against what you actually run and tells you when one reaches you.

## Technical details

The SGI syserr utility contains a vulnerability that allows local users to corrupt arbitrary files on the system. The issue likely stems from insecure file handling or improper permission management within the syserr program, which is used for processing system error messages. An attacker with local shell access can leverage this flaw to overwrite or corrupt files they would otherwise not have permission to modify. This can result in a loss of data integrity or a denial-of-service condition if critical system files are targeted. SGI released security advisory 19971103-01-PX to address this issue.

## Affected products

- SGI IRIX

## Timeline

- 1997-11-01: disclosed
- 1997-11-03: advisory: SGI security advisory 19971103-01-PX released.

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