initscripts in rPath Linux 1 sets insecure permissions for the /var/log/btmp file, which allows local users to obtain sensitive information regarding authentication attempts. NOTE: because sshd detects the insecure permissions and does not log certain events, this also prevents sshd from logging failed authentication attempts by remote attackers.
https://issues.rpath.com/browse/RPL-1825
http://www.vupen.com/english/advisories/2007/3474
http://www.securityfocus.com/bid/26048
http://www.securityfocus.com/archive/1/482857/100/0/threaded
http://www.securityfocus.com/archive/1/482129/100/100/threaded