CVE-2011-1146 in libvirt
Summary
by MITRE
libvirt.c in the API in Red Hat libvirt 0.8.8 does not properly restrict operations in a read-only connection, which allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (host OS crash) or possibly execute arbitrary code via a (1) virNodeDeviceDettach, (2) virNodeDeviceReset, (3) virDomainRevertToSnapshot, (4) virDomainSnapshotDelete, (5) virNodeDeviceReAttach, or (6) virConnectDomainXMLToNative call, a different vulnerability than CVE-2008-5086.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/15/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2011-1146 represents a critical authorization bypass flaw within the Red Hat libvirt virtualization management framework version 0.8.8. This issue resides in the libvirt.c file within the API layer and specifically targets the handling of read-only connections, where the system fails to properly enforce operational restrictions that should be in place for such connection types. The flaw manifests when remote attackers exploit the system through six distinct API calls that are normally restricted in read-only contexts, creating a pathway for potentially devastating consequences including system crashes and arbitrary code execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate validation mechanisms within the libvirt API that govern how different connection types interact with various system operations. When a read-only connection attempts to execute any of the six specified operations - virNodeDeviceDettach, virNodeDeviceReset, virDomainRevertToSnapshot, virDomainSnapshotDelete, virNodeDeviceReAttach, or virConnectDomainXMLToNative - the system fails to properly verify that the connection type permits such actions. This oversight creates a scenario where unauthorized operations can proceed despite the connection being explicitly configured for read-only access, effectively bypassing fundamental security controls that should prevent modification of system state or execution of privileged operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service conditions to encompass potential system compromise and complete control over the host environment. When exploited, the vulnerability can cause host operating system crashes through improper resource handling during the execution of privileged operations, while simultaneously providing attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. This dual nature of the vulnerability makes it particularly dangerous as it can transition from a simple availability attack to a full system compromise, depending on the attacker's objectives and the specific environment being targeted. The vulnerability affects systems running Red Hat libvirt 0.8.8 and potentially other versions with similar implementation flaws.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with several key frameworks and threat models including CWE-284, which addresses improper access control, and maps to ATT&CK techniques related to privilege escalation and execution of malicious code. The vulnerability demonstrates how insufficient input validation and improper access control mechanisms can create pathways for attackers to escalate their privileges and gain unauthorized system access. Organizations utilizing libvirt for virtualization management should consider this vulnerability as part of their broader security posture assessment, particularly in environments where multiple users or applications interact with virtualization APIs. The attack surface is further expanded by the fact that these operations can be triggered remotely, eliminating the need for local system access and making the vulnerability more accessible to a broader range of threat actors.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-1146 should prioritize immediate patching of affected libvirt installations to the latest stable versions that address the authorization bypass flaw. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to libvirt APIs to only trusted administrative networks and users. Additionally, implementing proper connection management practices including explicit read-only connection configuration and monitoring for unauthorized API calls can help detect potential exploitation attempts. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify any other systems running affected libvirt versions and ensure that all virtualization management interfaces are properly secured against unauthorized access and operation execution.