CVE-2004-0813 in Ide-cd
Summary
by MITRE
Unknown vulnerability in the SG_IO functionality in ide-cd allows local users to bypass read-only access and perform unauthorized write and erase operations.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/20/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-0813 represents a critical security flaw within the Linux kernel's ide-cd driver subsystem that affects the SG_IO (SCSI Generic I/O) functionality. This issue resides in the legacy IDE CD-ROM driver implementation that handles SCSI generic commands for IDE CD-ROM devices. The vulnerability stems from improper access control mechanisms within the kernel's device driver layer, specifically in how it processes SCSI commands that should be restricted to read-only operations. The affected system components include the kernel's block layer handling for IDE CD-ROM devices and the underlying SG_IO interface that provides generic SCSI command support.
The technical flaw manifests when local users exploit a weakness in the access control validation routine within the ide-cd driver's SG_IO implementation. This allows malicious users to bypass the intended read-only restrictions that should prevent unauthorized write and erase operations on CD-ROM media. The vulnerability occurs because the driver fails to properly validate command parameters and access permissions before executing SCSI commands, particularly those related to write operations. The flaw exists in the kernel's device access control model where the distinction between read-only and read-write operations becomes blurred during the SG_IO command processing phase. This weakness is classified under CWE-284 Access Control Issues, specifically related to insufficient access control validation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant for systems running Linux kernels with the affected ide-cd driver. Local attackers can exploit this flaw to perform unauthorized write operations on CD-ROM devices, potentially leading to data corruption or malicious payload insertion. The ability to perform erase operations further amplifies the risk as it allows complete data destruction on optical media. Systems that rely on CD-ROM media for software distribution, backup operations, or data storage become particularly vulnerable since attackers can manipulate the media contents without proper authorization. The vulnerability affects systems where ide-cd driver is actively used, typically legacy systems or those running older kernel versions that have not received the relevant security patches.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-0813 should focus on immediate kernel updates and system hardening measures. The primary solution involves applying the appropriate kernel security patches that fix the access control validation in the ide-cd driver's SG_IO implementation. System administrators should disable the ide-cd driver on systems where it is not required, particularly in environments where CD-ROM media access needs to be restricted. Implementing proper access controls and monitoring for unauthorized device access attempts can help detect exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter where local users might exploit such weaknesses to gain elevated privileges or manipulate system media. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing device access restrictions through kernel module loading controls and ensuring that only authorized users have access to systems running potentially vulnerable kernel versions. The remediation process should include comprehensive system auditing to identify all instances of the vulnerable driver and verification that appropriate patches have been applied across all affected systems.