CVE-2010-0451 in HP-UX
Summary
by MITRE
The installation process for NFS/ONCplus B.11.31_08 and earlier on HP HP-UX B.11.31 changes the NFS_SERVER setting in the nfsconf file, which might allow remote attackers to obtain filesystem access via NFS requests.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/03/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-0451 represents a critical configuration flaw within the Network File System implementation on HP-UX operating systems. This issue specifically affects NFS/ONCplus versions B.11.31_08 and earlier, where the installation process modifies the NFS_SERVER parameter within the nfsconf configuration file. The flaw stems from improper handling of system configuration during the installation routine, creating a security exposure that could be exploited by malicious actors. The vulnerability falls under the category of configuration management issues and represents a failure in maintaining proper security boundaries within the network filesystem infrastructure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the manipulation of the nfsconf file, which serves as the central configuration repository for NFS services on HP-UX systems. During the installation process, the system modifies the NFS_SERVER setting in a manner that could inadvertently expose filesystem access to unauthorized remote entities. This configuration change creates a pathway where remote attackers could potentially craft NFS requests that exploit the modified settings to gain unauthorized access to filesystem resources. The flaw operates at the system administration level, where installation procedures fail to properly secure configuration parameters that control network service behavior.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it fundamentally compromises the integrity of the NFS security model on affected HP-UX systems. Remote attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability could potentially access sensitive data stored on network filesystems, execute arbitrary code, or perform privilege escalation attacks depending on the system configuration and access controls in place. The vulnerability's exploitation requires network connectivity to the affected system and knowledge of NFS protocols, making it particularly concerning for enterprise environments where NFS services are widely deployed. This issue directly violates the principle of least privilege and could lead to complete system compromise if proper access controls are not implemented.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-0451 should focus on immediate remediation through system updates and configuration hardening. Organizations should apply the latest HP-UX security patches that address the vulnerable NFS/ONCplus installation process and ensure that the nfsconf file is properly secured with appropriate permissions. System administrators should conduct thorough audits of NFS configurations and implement network segmentation to limit access to NFS services. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-707, which addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in a different context, and represents a configuration management failure that could be addressed through proper change management processes. Additionally, implementing network monitoring solutions to detect anomalous NFS traffic patterns can help identify potential exploitation attempts, while adherence to the principle of least privilege in NFS service configuration can minimize the impact of any successful attacks. Organizations should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious NFS requests that may indicate exploitation attempts.