CVE-2000-1202 in Network Appliance Data ONTAP
Summary
by MITRE
ikeyman in IBM IBMHSSSB 1.0 sets the CLASSPATH environmental variable to include the user s own CLASSPATH directories before the system s directories, which allows a malicious local user to execute arbitrary code as root via a Trojan horse Ikeyman class.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/08/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2000-1202 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw in IBM IBMHSSSB 1.0's ikeyman component that exploits improper environment variable handling. This issue stems from the insecure ordering of classpath directories within the Java runtime environment, creating a path traversal attack vector that allows local attackers to execute malicious code with elevated privileges. The vulnerability specifically targets the CLASSPATH environmental variable configuration, which is fundamental to Java application execution and security boundary enforcement.
The technical flaw manifests when the ikeyman utility processes the CLASSPATH variable by prepending user-defined directories before system directories, effectively creating a path hijacking scenario. This design flaw aligns with CWE-427, which addresses uncontrolled search path, where the system's security relies on the order of path elements. When a malicious user places a Trojan horse class file in their own directory with the same name as a legitimate ikeyman class, the system loads the malicious code instead of the intended system component due to the insecure path resolution order. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the system level where user-controlled code can be executed with root privileges, violating fundamental security principles of privilege separation and least privilege access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides a complete privilege escalation pathway that allows attackers to gain root access to the system. This enables malicious actors to modify system files, install backdoors, and potentially compromise the entire system infrastructure. The attack requires only local access and knowledge of the system's classpath structure, making it particularly concerning for environments where local user access is not strictly controlled. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1068, which covers 'Local Port Forwarding' and privilege escalation techniques, and T1548.001, which covers 'Abuse Elevation Control Mechanism'. The vulnerability essentially undermines the system's ability to enforce proper access controls and authentication mechanisms, creating a persistent threat vector.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2000-1202 require immediate remediation through patching the IBM IBMHSSSB 1.0 software to correct the CLASSPATH ordering issue. System administrators should implement strict access controls and monitor for unauthorized modifications to system directories, particularly those containing Java class files. The recommended approach includes configuring the system to use absolute paths for system classes and ensuring that user directories are not placed in front of system directories in the CLASSPATH configuration. Additionally, implementing proper file permissions and access controls can help prevent malicious users from placing Trojan horse classes in critical directories. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies and regular security audits to detect and prevent similar vulnerabilities in other system components. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices and proper environment variable handling in security-critical applications, emphasizing the need for thorough security testing and code review processes to prevent such path traversal exploits.