What's the issue when /dev/null has incorrect file type?

Solution Verified - Updated -

Issue

  • What's the issue when /dev/null has incorrect file type?

This may cause the following problems:

  • Non-standard and untested behavior of programs and shell scripts.
  • Data intended being discarded by redirection to /dev/null may be leaked to a world accessible file instead.

Environment

  • Red Hat Enterprise Linux 5
  • Red Hat Enterprise Linux 6
  • Red Hat Enterprise Linux 7
  • Red Hat Enterprise Linux 8
  • Red Hat Enterprise Linux 9

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