CVE-2000-0195 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE
setxconf in Corel Linux allows local users to gain root access via the -T parameter, which executes the user's .xserverrc file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/20/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2000-0195 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw in the setxconf utility distributed with Corel Linux operating system. This vulnerability specifically affects the X Window System configuration tool that allows local users to modify X server settings through the command line interface. The flaw manifests when the setxconf utility processes the -T parameter, which is designed to specify a target configuration file for X server settings. However, the implementation contains a dangerous execution path that directly invokes the user's .xserverrc file without proper privilege validation or sanitization of input parameters.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability stems from the improper handling of user-supplied paths and execution contexts within the setxconf utility. When a local attacker invokes the utility with the -T parameter, the system does not properly validate or sanitize the target path specification, allowing the attacker to manipulate the execution flow. The .xserverrc file is a standard configuration file that the X server typically executes during initialization, and when this file is executed through the vulnerable setxconf utility, it runs with elevated privileges. This creates a direct privilege escalation vector where a local user can execute arbitrary code with root privileges simply by crafting a malicious .xserverrc file in their home directory.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe security risk to systems running Corel Linux, as it eliminates the need for remote exploitation or complex attack chains. Any local user who can execute setxconf with the -T parameter can immediately escalate their privileges to root access, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The impact extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as attackers can use this access to modify system files, install backdoors, disable security mechanisms, or exfiltrate sensitive data. This vulnerability directly violates the principle of least privilege and represents a fundamental flaw in the system's access control mechanisms, making it particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where local users might have legitimate access to the system but should not possess root-level capabilities.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-276, which covers improper privilege management, and demonstrates how inadequate input validation can lead to privilege escalation attacks. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this represents a privilege escalation technique categorized under T1068, which involves exploiting vulnerabilities to gain elevated privileges. The attack chain is straightforward and reliable, requiring no sophisticated exploitation techniques beyond understanding the system's file execution patterns. Organizations running Corel Linux should implement immediate mitigations including restricting access to the setxconf utility, ensuring proper file permissions on .xserverrc files, and implementing mandatory access controls to prevent unauthorized privilege escalation. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure coding practices, particularly in utilities that handle system-level configuration changes, emphasizing the need for proper privilege validation and input sanitization to prevent similar issues in other system components.