CVE-2000-0231 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE
Linux kreatecd trusts a user-supplied path that is used to find the cdrecord program, allowing local users to gain root privileges.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/25/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2000-0231 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw within the Linux kreatecd utility that operates under the Common Weakness Enumeration framework as a weakness categorized under CWE-276. This vulnerability exists in the manner by which kreatecd handles user-supplied paths when searching for the cdrecord program, creating an exploitable condition that allows local users to elevate their privileges to root access. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and path resolution mechanisms within the utility's code execution flow, where the system fails to properly sanitize or verify the authenticity of paths provided by untrusted users.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a classic case of insecure path resolution where kreatecd accepts a user-controlled parameter without proper validation, leading to potential command injection or path manipulation attacks. When the utility processes a user-supplied path to locate cdrecord, it does not perform adequate checks to ensure that the path points to an intended location or that the user has proper authorization to modify the specified path. This behavior creates an opportunity for malicious users to manipulate the system's path resolution process, potentially causing the system to execute unintended code with elevated privileges. The vulnerability specifically affects systems where kreatecd is installed with setuid root permissions, which is a common configuration for utilities that require elevated privileges to perform certain operations such as CD burning.
The operational impact of CVE-2000-0231 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it represents a fundamental security flaw that can be exploited by local attackers to gain complete system control. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability by crafting malicious paths that, when processed by kreatecd, result in the execution of arbitrary commands with root privileges. This type of attack falls under the MITRE ATT&CK framework's privilege escalation techniques, specifically targeting the use of setuid binaries and path manipulation as means to achieve elevated access. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires minimal user interaction beyond the initial exploitation and can be automated to compromise systems running vulnerable versions of kreatecd.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of affected systems and implementation of proper input validation controls. System administrators should ensure that all instances of kreatecd are updated to versions that properly validate user-supplied paths and implement secure path resolution techniques. The recommended approach includes removing setuid permissions from kreatecd where possible and implementing proper path sanitization routines that verify path integrity before processing user input. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing the principle of least privilege by ensuring that utilities requiring elevated access are properly configured with minimal necessary permissions. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper code review and security testing of setuid applications, as these utilities present high-value targets for attackers seeking privilege escalation opportunities. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should include examination of path handling routines within system utilities to prevent similar issues from occurring in other applications.