CVE-2011-2472 in OProfile
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in utils/opcontrol in OProfile 0.9.6 and earlier might allow local users to overwrite arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the --save argument, related to the --session-dir argument, a different vulnerability than CVE-2011-1760.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/08/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-2472 represents a directory traversal flaw within the OProfile system profiling tool version 0.9.6 and earlier. This security weakness exists in the utils/opcontrol utility component and specifically affects how the tool processes command-line arguments, particularly the --save and --session-dir parameters. The vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation and sanitization when handling path traversal sequences, creating a scenario where malicious local users can manipulate file operations through carefully crafted command-line inputs.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the improper handling of dot-dot sequences in file paths within the OProfile utility. When users specify the --save argument combined with the --session-dir parameter, the system fails to adequately validate or sanitize the input paths, allowing attackers to traverse directories beyond the intended scope. This flaw enables attackers to overwrite arbitrary files on the system by constructing malicious path arguments that leverage the .. (dot dot) traversal sequences. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-22 as a directory traversal attack, where the system does not properly validate user-supplied input before using it in file operations. The flaw specifically impacts the opcontrol utility's ability to manage profiling session directories and save operations, creating a potential privilege escalation vector for local attackers.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file overwriting capabilities, as it provides attackers with the ability to modify critical system files, potentially compromising the integrity of the profiling environment. Local users with access to the OProfile utility can exploit this flaw to overwrite configuration files, executable binaries, or other sensitive system components, potentially leading to system instability or complete compromise. The vulnerability affects systems where OProfile is installed and accessible to local users, particularly in environments where profiling tools are used for system monitoring or performance analysis. Attackers can leverage this weakness to modify profiling session data, potentially corrupting system monitoring information or creating backdoors through file replacement operations. The impact is further exacerbated by the fact that this vulnerability operates at the local user level, requiring minimal privileges to exploit, making it particularly concerning in multi-user environments where system integrity is paramount.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-2472 should focus on immediate patching of the OProfile utility to version 0.9.7 or later, which includes proper input validation and sanitization for path handling. System administrators should implement strict access controls to prevent unauthorized local access to the opcontrol utility, particularly in production environments where profiling activities are conducted. The implementation of proper file permission controls and mandatory access controls can help limit the scope of potential exploitation. Additionally, organizations should consider disabling unnecessary profiling features or restricting the use of the --save and --session-dir arguments to prevent exploitation. Regular system auditing and monitoring of file access patterns can help detect potential exploitation attempts, while the application of principle of least privilege ensures that only authorized personnel have access to profiling tools. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for execution through command-line interfaces and T1566.002 for privilege escalation through local file overwrites, making it a significant concern for system security posture and compliance requirements.