CVE-2000-0048 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE
get_it program in Corel Linux Update allows local users to gain root access by specifying an alternate PATH for the cp program.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/21/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2000-0048 resides within the get_it program component of Corel Linux Update, representing a classic privilege escalation flaw that exploits insecure path handling mechanisms. This vulnerability specifically targets the manner in which the get_it program manages the PATH environment variable when executing the cp command, creating a dangerous condition where local users can manipulate system execution flows to achieve unauthorized root access.
The technical flaw manifests through a path injection vulnerability that falls under the CWE-426 category of Untrusted Search Path, where the program fails to properly validate or sanitize the execution path for system utilities. When the get_it program executes the cp command, it relies on the current PATH environment variable without implementing proper security controls to ensure that only authorized system binaries are executed. This insecure implementation allows a malicious local user to place a crafted malicious cp binary in a directory that appears earlier in the PATH than the legitimate system location, effectively hijacking the execution flow.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it enables local users to bypass the standard authentication and authorization mechanisms that normally protect system resources. The attack vector requires only local system access, making it particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where users might not have elevated privileges but can exploit this weakness to gain root access. This vulnerability directly relates to the ATT&CK technique T1068 which involves the use of privilege escalation techniques to gain higher-level system access.
The exploitation process involves the attacker creating a malicious cp binary with elevated privileges or backdoor functionality in a directory that appears before the standard system directories in the PATH environment variable. When the get_it program executes, it inadvertently calls the malicious binary instead of the legitimate system cp command, allowing the attacker to execute arbitrary code with root privileges. This type of vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the system level and can be exploited without requiring network access or sophisticated attack infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include implementing proper path validation mechanisms, using absolute paths for critical system commands, and ensuring that system binaries are executed from secure directories that cannot be easily manipulated by local users. The recommended approach involves setting the PATH environment variable to include only trusted directories and removing any user-writable directories from the search path for critical system utilities. Additionally, implementing the principle of least privilege and ensuring that system update programs do not execute with elevated privileges unless absolutely necessary helps reduce the attack surface. Organizations should also consider implementing monitoring and logging mechanisms to detect anomalous PATH modifications or unexpected execution of system utilities.