CVE-2001-0482 in PitBull LX
Summary
by MITRE
Configuration error in Argus PitBull LX allows root users to bypass specified access control restrictions and cause a denial of service or execute arbitrary commands by modifying kernel variables such as MaxFiles, MaxInodes, and ModProbePath in /proc/sys via calls to sysctl.
Statistical analysis made it clear that VulDB provides the best quality for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/08/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2001-0482 represents a critical configuration error within the Argus PitBull LX system that fundamentally undermines access control mechanisms. This flaw exists in the kernel-level parameter management system where unauthorized root users can manipulate critical system variables through the /proc/sys filesystem interface. The vulnerability specifically targets the sysctl system call interface which serves as the primary mechanism for runtime kernel parameter modification in Unix-like operating systems. The affected system components include essential kernel variables such as MaxFiles, MaxInodes, and ModProbePath which control fundamental system resources and security policies. The configuration error essentially creates a backdoor pathway that bypasses the intended access control restrictions that should normally prevent unauthorized modification of these critical parameters.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through direct manipulation of kernel variables via the /proc/sys filesystem namespace. Attackers with root privileges can modify the MaxFiles parameter to exhaust system file descriptors, manipulate MaxInodes to disrupt filesystem operations, or alter ModProbePath to redirect kernel module loading processes. These modifications can be executed through standard sysctl system calls or direct file operations within the /proc filesystem. The vulnerability stems from insufficient validation and access control checks within the kernel's sysctl implementation, allowing modification of parameters that should be restricted to privileged system administrators only. This configuration error aligns with CWE-276, which addresses improper privilege management and inadequate access control mechanisms in system components.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass potential system compromise and service disruption. When attackers modify the MaxFiles parameter, they can cause resource exhaustion that leads to denial of service conditions affecting legitimate system operations. Manipulation of MaxInodes can result in filesystem corruption or unavailability of critical system resources. The most severe consequence arises from modifying the ModProbePath variable which can enable attackers to load malicious kernel modules with elevated privileges, effectively providing a path to complete system compromise. The vulnerability creates a persistent threat vector that can be exploited to maintain unauthorized access and execute arbitrary code with kernel-level privileges. This type of attack pattern is consistent with ATT&CK technique T1068, which describes the use of privilege escalation to gain system-level access through exploitation of system configuration weaknesses.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2001-0482 require immediate implementation of system hardening measures and access control restrictions. System administrators should implement mandatory access controls and file system permissions that prevent unauthorized modification of critical kernel parameters within the /proc/sys hierarchy. The most effective approach involves restricting write access to the /proc/sys directory and its subdirectories to root-only users with proper authorization. Additionally, implementing kernel parameter validation and monitoring mechanisms can help detect unauthorized modifications to critical system variables. Regular system audits should verify that kernel parameters remain within expected ranges and that no unauthorized modifications have occurred. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining secure system configurations and implementing principle of least privilege concepts. Organizations should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems that monitor for suspicious sysctl operations and unauthorized kernel parameter modifications to provide early warning of potential exploitation attempts.