CVE-1999-0263 in Solaris
Summary
by MITRE
Solaris SUNWadmap can be exploited to obtain root access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/17/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-1999-0263 affects Solaris systems with the SUNWadmap package, representing a critical privilege escalation flaw that allows attackers to obtain root access. This vulnerability stems from improper access controls within the Solaris administration mapping component, which is designed to manage administrative mappings and access permissions within the operating system. The flaw exists in the way the system handles administrative privileges and access validation, creating a pathway for unauthorized users to escalate their privileges to the highest system level. The vulnerability specifically impacts Solaris versions that include the SUNWadmap package, which provides administrative mapping services and access control mechanisms for system administration functions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a flaw in the access control validation process within the SUNWadmap component. Attackers can exploit this weakness by manipulating administrative mapping parameters or by exploiting insufficient input validation in administrative interfaces. The vulnerability typically manifests when the system fails to properly verify administrative privileges before allowing access to privileged functions or when administrative mappings are not properly secured against unauthorized modification. This flaw allows an attacker with basic user privileges to bypass normal access controls and gain root access to the system. The exploitability of this vulnerability is enhanced by the fact that it operates at the system administration level where legitimate administrative functions are performed, making it difficult to detect through normal security monitoring.
The operational impact of CVE-1999-0263 is severe and far-reaching, as successful exploitation results in complete system compromise. Once an attacker obtains root access through this vulnerability, they gain unrestricted control over all system resources, including the ability to modify system files, install malicious software, access all user data, and establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability affects system integrity and confidentiality, as attackers can manipulate system configurations, access sensitive data, and potentially use the compromised system as a launch point for attacks on other networked systems. Organizations running affected Solaris systems face significant risk of data breaches, system downtime, and potential regulatory compliance violations. The vulnerability also impacts system availability, as attackers can potentially disable critical system services or perform destructive modifications to system components.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate system hardening and patch management. The most effective approach involves applying the appropriate security patches from Oracle that address the access control flaws in the SUNWadmap package. System administrators should also implement strict access controls and audit configurations to monitor administrative activities, particularly focusing on the administrative mapping components. Network segmentation and privilege separation techniques should be employed to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual administrative access patterns and unauthorized modifications to system administration mappings. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege practices and regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-284, which addresses improper access control, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1068, privilege escalation through system administration tools. Regular security updates and vulnerability assessments are essential to prevent exploitation of similar access control weaknesses in system administration components.