CVE-2000-0633 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE
Vulnerability in Mandrake Linux usermode package allows local users to to reboot or halt the system.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/14/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2000-0633 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw within the Mandrake Linux usermode package that enables local attackers to execute system shutdown commands without proper authorization. This issue stems from inadequate access controls and insufficient input validation within the usermode package implementation, which governs the interaction between user-space applications and system-level operations. The flaw specifically affects the handling of system control commands within the Linux kernel's usermode helper framework, where malicious local users can exploit improper privilege checks to gain unauthorized access to system shutdown functionality.
From a technical perspective, the vulnerability manifests when the usermode package fails to properly validate the privileges of processes attempting to execute shutdown or reboot commands. This weakness allows attackers who already have local access to the system to escalate their privileges and execute system-level operations that should typically be restricted to root or administrative users. The underlying flaw aligns with CWE-276, which addresses improper privilege management in software systems, and specifically demonstrates how inadequate access control mechanisms can lead to unauthorized system manipulation. The vulnerability operates through the kernel's usermode helper functionality, where user-space programs can be invoked with elevated privileges, creating an attack surface that adversaries can exploit to gain control over critical system operations.
The operational impact of CVE-2000-0633 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with the capability to disrupt system availability through unauthorized reboot or halt commands. This can result in denial of service conditions that may be particularly damaging in production environments where system uptime is critical. The vulnerability can be leveraged as part of broader attack strategies within the MITRE ATT&CK framework, specifically under the T1068 technique for privilege escalation and T1490 for denial of service attacks. Local users who exploit this vulnerability can cause system instability, data loss, and potential service disruption that may affect multiple users and applications running on the compromised system.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper privilege controls within the usermode package and ensuring that system shutdown commands require explicit authorization from privileged users. System administrators should apply the latest security patches provided by Mandrake Linux, which typically involve strengthening access controls and input validation mechanisms within the affected package. Additionally, implementing mandatory access controls through SELinux or similar security modules can provide additional protection layers. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper privilege separation and demonstrates how even seemingly benign system utilities can become attack vectors when inadequate access controls are implemented. Organizations should conduct regular security audits to identify similar privilege escalation vulnerabilities in their Linux environments and ensure that all system-level operations require appropriate authorization checks.