CVE-2007-2074 in ScramDisk 4 Linux
Summary
by MITRE
Certain programs in containers in ScramDisk 4 Linux before 1.0-1 execute with SUID permissions, which allows local users to gain privileges via mounted containers.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/15/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-2074 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw within ScramDisk 4 Linux versions prior to 1.0-1. This issue stems from the improper handling of SUID (Set User ID) permissions within containerized components of the software. The vulnerability exists in the way the application manages file permissions and execution contexts when containers are mounted, creating an exploitable condition that allows local attackers to elevate their privileges. The root cause lies in the software's failure to properly enforce security boundaries between different execution contexts, particularly when dealing with mounted container environments. This flaw demonstrates a fundamental breakdown in the principle of least privilege, where programs that should operate with restricted permissions are instead granted elevated privileges through SUID mechanisms.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the execution of programs within container contexts that retain SUID permissions, which should normally be stripped during normal execution flows. When containers are mounted and their contained programs executed, the SUID bit remains active, allowing local users to leverage this permission structure to execute code with elevated privileges. The flaw specifically affects containerized applications that are designed to run with elevated permissions but fail to properly drop these privileges when operating within the container environment. This creates a persistent security boundary violation where the container's isolation properties are compromised, enabling privilege escalation attacks. The vulnerability operates under the broader category of privilege escalation flaws, with direct implications for system integrity and user account security.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability allows local attackers to gain root or administrative privileges on systems running affected versions of ScramDisk 4 Linux. The exploitation process typically involves mounting a container and then executing specific programs within that container context, leveraging the retained SUID permissions to elevate privileges. The impact extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise, data theft, and persistence mechanisms. Attackers can use this vulnerability to bypass normal access controls, install backdoors, modify system files, or establish persistent access to the compromised system. The vulnerability affects the fundamental security model of the application, undermining the trust model that containerization is designed to provide. This type of vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the kernel or system level, where the attacker gains elevated privileges that can be used to manipulate the entire system environment.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-2074 focus primarily on updating to patched versions of ScramDisk 4 Linux, specifically version 1.0-1 or later, which address the improper SUID permission handling. System administrators should also implement additional security measures including disabling unnecessary SUID binaries, monitoring for suspicious SUID usage patterns, and applying principle of least privilege configurations. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-276, which addresses improper file permissions, and relates to ATT&CK techniques involving privilege escalation through SUID binaries. Organizations should conduct comprehensive audits of SUID binaries and containerized applications to identify similar vulnerabilities in their environments. Additionally, implementing mandatory access controls and regular security assessments can help detect and prevent exploitation of similar privilege escalation vulnerabilities. The recommended approach involves both immediate patching and long-term security hardening practices to prevent similar issues from arising in other components of the system infrastructure.