CVE-2000-0712 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE
Linux Intrusion Detection System (LIDS) 0.9.7 allows local users to gain root privileges when LIDS is disabled via the security=0 boot option.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/13/2019
The Linux Intrusion Detection System LIDS version 0.9.7 contains a critical privilege escalation vulnerability that affects systems where LIDS has been disabled through the security=0 kernel boot parameter. This vulnerability represents a fundamental flaw in the system's security architecture that allows local attackers to elevate their privileges to root level access. The issue stems from improper privilege handling within the LIDS implementation when the security mechanisms are explicitly disabled at boot time, creating an exploitable condition that bypasses normal access controls.
The technical flaw occurs in the kernel module implementation of LIDS where the security=0 boot option disables all LIDS protections but fails to properly sanitize the system state for privilege escalation. When LIDS is disabled through this parameter, the system's security checks are bypassed, but the underlying kernel module code does not properly validate access permissions or maintain proper privilege boundaries. This creates a condition where local users can manipulate kernel data structures or invoke privileged functions through the disabled security mechanisms. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows any local user to exploit this weakness without requiring special privileges or complex attack vectors.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it provides a direct path to root compromise for any local user on a system running LIDS 0.9.7 with the security=0 boot option enabled. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain complete system control, potentially leading to data exfiltration, system corruption, or use as a foothold for further attacks within a network. The vulnerability affects systems where administrators have intentionally disabled LIDS security for testing or compatibility reasons, creating a false sense of security while simultaneously providing attackers with an easy path to system compromise. This issue demonstrates the critical importance of proper privilege management even in systems where security mechanisms are intentionally disabled.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate patching of LIDS to version 0.9.8 or later, which contains the necessary fixes to properly handle the security=0 boot parameter. System administrators should also review all kernel boot parameters and disable the security=0 option unless absolutely required for specific compatibility reasons. Additionally, implementing proper monitoring and alerting for unauthorized changes to boot parameters can help detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-276, which addresses improper privileges, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1068, privilege escalation through kernel exploits. Organizations should also consider implementing mandatory access controls and privilege separation mechanisms to reduce the impact of such vulnerabilities and ensure that even if one security control fails, other controls remain effective in protecting system integrity.