CVE-2000-1220 in IRIX
Summary
by MITRE
The line printer daemon (lpd) in the lpr package in multiple Linux operating systems allows local users to gain root privileges by causing sendmail to execute with arbitrary command line arguments, as demonstrated using the -C option to specify a configuration file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/12/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2000-1220 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw within the line printer daemon (lpd) component of the lpr package across multiple Linux distributions. This vulnerability specifically targets the interaction between lpd and the sendmail utility, creating an exploitable condition that allows local attackers to elevate their privileges to root level. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and improper privilege handling within the lpd service when processing print jobs that involve mail notifications or command execution.
The technical exploitation mechanism relies on the lpd daemon's ability to invoke sendmail with arbitrary command line arguments, particularly leveraging the -C option which specifies a configuration file. When lpd processes print requests that contain maliciously crafted parameters, it passes these arguments directly to sendmail without adequate sanitization or privilege separation. This creates a scenario where an attacker can manipulate the sendmail execution environment to include dangerous command line options that ultimately result in arbitrary code execution with root privileges. The vulnerability operates at the system level and demonstrates a classic case of command injection combined with privilege escalation.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability poses significant security risks to systems running affected versions of lpr packages. Local users who can access the system but do not have root privileges can exploit this flaw to gain complete system control, potentially leading to data compromise, system takeover, and persistent access. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires minimal privileges to execute and can be automated, making it attractive to malicious actors who may already have limited system access. The vulnerability affects multiple Linux distributions and was present in various versions of the lpr package, indicating a widespread exposure across the Linux ecosystem.
The exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with several ATT&CK framework techniques including privilege escalation through command injection and abuse of system services. From a CWE perspective, this represents a variant of CWE-78 "Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an OS Command" combined with CWE-269 "Improper Privilege Management" to create a comprehensive privilege escalation vector. The vulnerability also demonstrates poor input validation practices and inadequate privilege separation between user-level processes and system-level services. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including patching affected systems, disabling unnecessary print services, and ensuring proper privilege separation between lpd and sendmail components. System administrators should also consider implementing monitoring for suspicious sendmail invocations and review existing print queue configurations to minimize attack surface.