CVE-2011-1420 in Data Protection Advisor Collector
Summary
by MITRE
EMC Data Protection Advisor Collector 5.7 and 5.7.1 on Solaris SPARC platforms uses weak permissions for unspecified files, which allows local users to gain privileges via unknown vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/10/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-1420 affects EMC Data Protection Advisor Collector versions 5.7 and 5.7.1 running on Solaris SPARC platforms. This issue represents a privilege escalation vulnerability that stems from improper file permissions within the software installation. The weakness lies in the configuration of unspecified files that are installed as part of the collector service, creating potential attack vectors for local users who may exploit these misconfigurations to elevate their privileges. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it affects a data protection management tool that would typically require elevated permissions to function properly, yet the weak file permissions create opportunities for unauthorized privilege escalation.
The technical flaw manifests through inadequate access control mechanisms where files necessary for the collector service operation are configured with permissions that are too permissive for a security-sensitive application. This misconfiguration allows local users to potentially modify critical components, access sensitive data, or manipulate the service in ways that would normally be restricted. The unspecified nature of the affected files suggests that multiple components within the collector service may be vulnerable, making the scope of potential impact broader than initially apparent. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of improper file permissions as classified by CWE-732, which specifically addresses inadequate permissions for critical files that could allow privilege escalation attacks.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations relying on EMC Data Protection Advisor Collector for their backup and recovery management. Local users who can exploit this weakness can potentially gain elevated privileges that would allow them to access protected data, modify backup configurations, or even compromise the integrity of the entire backup infrastructure. The impact extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it could enable attackers to manipulate backup processes, potentially leading to data loss, data corruption, or complete system compromise. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where multiple users may have local access to systems running the collector service, creating multiple potential attack vectors.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including verifying and correcting file permissions for all components of the EMC Data Protection Advisor Collector installation. The recommended approach involves reviewing the permission settings for all files and directories associated with the collector service and ensuring they are appropriately restricted to prevent unauthorized access. System administrators should also consider implementing additional security controls such as privilege separation, regular permission audits, and monitoring for unauthorized file modifications. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers privilege escalation through local exploitation, and organizations should consider implementing defensive measures such as least privilege access controls and regular security assessments. The remediation process should include updating to patched versions of the software if available, or implementing compensating controls to mitigate the risk until a proper update can be deployed across the enterprise environment.