CVE-2002-0758 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE
ifup-dhcp script in the sysconfig package for SuSE 8.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via spoofed DHCP responses, which are stored and executed in a file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/23/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-0758 represents a critical security flaw in the sysconfig package version 8.0 for SuSE Linux systems. This issue specifically affects the ifup-dhcp script which is responsible for managing dhcp network configurations. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of DHCP responses within the network configuration process, creating a pathway for malicious actors to compromise system integrity through network-based attacks. The flaw exists in the way the system processes and stores DHCP responses, which are then executed as commands without proper validation or sanitization.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a command injection flaw that occurs when the ifup-dhcp script processes DHCP server responses. Attackers can craft spoofed DHCP responses containing malicious commands that get stored in system files and subsequently executed by the script. This represents a classic case of unsafe command execution where user-controlled input from network sources is directly incorporated into system commands without adequate sanitization. The vulnerability operates at the network level where DHCP servers communicate with client systems, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited from remote locations without requiring physical access or prior authentication.
The operational impact of CVE-2002-0758 extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass full system compromise capabilities. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability can execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running the ifup-dhcp script, which typically operates with elevated privileges. This allows for complete system takeover including data exfiltration, persistent backdoor installation, and further network reconnaissance. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires no special credentials or local access, making it an attractive target for automated exploitation tools. The vulnerability essentially provides a remote code execution capability that bypasses traditional authentication mechanisms.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-78 which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands, and represents a variant of the broader category of command injection attacks. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this maps to technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation. The attack chain typically involves initial network reconnaissance to identify vulnerable systems, crafting of spoofed DHCP responses, and execution of malicious payloads through the compromised ifup-dhcp script. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit DHCP server access, monitor for unusual DHCP traffic patterns, and ensure timely patching of affected systems. The recommended mitigation includes upgrading to patched versions of the sysconfig package, implementing network access controls, and conducting regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in system configuration scripts.
The broader implications of this vulnerability highlight the critical importance of validating and sanitizing all external inputs in system configuration processes. This flaw demonstrates how seemingly benign network protocols can become attack vectors when system components fail to properly validate input data. Security practitioners should recognize that network-based configuration management scripts represent high-value targets for attackers seeking persistent access to systems. Regular security auditing of system scripts and configuration management processes becomes essential to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited in modern environments where network-based attacks are increasingly sophisticated and automated.