CVE-1999-0136 in Solaris
Summary
by MITRE
kodak color management system (kcms) on solaris allows a local user to write to arbitrary files and gain root access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/03/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-1999-0136 affects the Kodak Color Management System (KCMS) component within the Solaris operating system environment. This issue represents a critical privilege escalation flaw that enables local attackers to execute arbitrary file operations and ultimately obtain root-level system access. The vulnerability stems from inadequate permission controls and improper file handling mechanisms within the KCMS implementation, creating a pathway for malicious users to manipulate system resources beyond their intended access levels.
The technical flaw manifests through improper validation of file operations within the KCMS subsystem, where the system fails to properly authenticate or authorize file access requests. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting specific file operations that bypass normal access controls, allowing them to write to protected system files or directories. The vulnerability specifically targets the color management services that run with elevated privileges, creating a direct attack vector for privilege escalation. This flaw operates at the kernel or system service level where the KCMS component executes with root permissions, making any write operations potentially catastrophic for system integrity.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple local privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with complete administrative control over affected Solaris systems. Once exploited, attackers can modify critical system files, install persistent backdoors, alter system configurations, or even disable security mechanisms. The local nature of the exploit means that an attacker must first gain access to a valid user account on the system, but this initial access requirement is often achievable through various social engineering or other attack vectors. The vulnerability affects systems running Solaris versions that include the Kodak Color Management System, particularly those with default configurations that enable the affected services.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of system hardening measures including disabling unnecessary color management services, applying appropriate file permissions, and implementing proper access controls for system resources. System administrators should consider removing or disabling the KCMS component entirely if it is not required for operations, as this eliminates the attack surface entirely. Additionally, regular system auditing and monitoring should be implemented to detect unauthorized file modifications or unusual system behavior. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-276, which addresses improper file permissions, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1068, privilege escalation through local services, highlighting the need for comprehensive system security measures beyond simple patching. Organizations should also implement principle of least privilege configurations and regularly review system access controls to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited in other system components.