CVE-2011-4182 in Linux Enterprise
Summary
by MITRE
Missing escaping of ESSID values in sysconfig of SUSE Linux Enterprise allows attackers controlling an access point to cause execute arbitrary code. Affected releases are sysconfig prior to 0.83.7-2.1.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/22/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-4182 represents a critical security flaw in the sysconfig package of SUSE Linux Enterprise systems, specifically impacting versions prior to 083.7-2.1. This issue stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization of ESSID (Extended Service Set Identifier) values within the wireless network configuration management system. The ESSID serves as the network name identifier that wireless clients use to connect to access points, making it a critical component in wireless network security and management. When an attacker gains control of a wireless access point, they can manipulate the ESSID value to inject malicious content that bypasses normal security controls. The root cause of this vulnerability lies in the improper handling of special characters and escape sequences within ESSID values, creating a potential code execution vector that could be exploited by unauthorized parties.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs within the sysconfig wireless network configuration subsystem where ESSID values are processed without adequate sanitization of potentially harmful characters. This weakness enables attackers to inject shell metacharacters or command sequences that get executed during the wireless network configuration process. The vulnerability specifically affects how the system handles ESSID values in the context of wireless network management, where configuration files are parsed and processed. When an attacker controls a compromised access point and sets a malicious ESSID value, the system's failure to properly escape these values creates an environment where arbitrary code execution becomes possible. This flaw operates at the system configuration level rather than at the application level, making it particularly dangerous as it can affect the entire wireless network infrastructure management capabilities of affected systems. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-74, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in a command, and CWE-15, which covers external control of system or configuration settings.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-4182 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete compromise of wireless network infrastructure management capabilities. Systems running affected versions of sysconfig become vulnerable to unauthorized access and control of wireless network configurations, potentially allowing attackers to establish persistent access points, redirect network traffic, or disable legitimate wireless services. This vulnerability particularly affects enterprise environments where wireless network management is centralized and automated, as it could enable attackers to compromise multiple devices simultaneously. The attack vector requires an attacker to control a wireless access point, which represents a significant security boundary breach but is not impossible given the prevalence of wireless networks in enterprise environments. Once exploited, the vulnerability could enable attackers to gain elevated privileges within the wireless network management system, potentially leading to complete network compromise. The implications extend to compliance requirements and security frameworks such as NIST SP 800-53, which emphasizes the need for proper input validation and sanitization in system configurations. The vulnerability also maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which involves the execution of commands through scripting languages, as the malicious ESSID values could trigger command execution in the system's wireless configuration processing.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-4182 require immediate system updates to versions of sysconfig that include proper ESSID value sanitization and escaping mechanisms. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit access to wireless network management systems and ensure that only authorized personnel can modify wireless access point configurations. The patching process should include verification that all wireless network management components are updated to the secure versions, and that proper input validation is implemented across all wireless configuration interfaces. Network administrators should also implement monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous ESSID values or unexpected wireless network configuration changes. Additional security measures include implementing wireless network intrusion detection systems that can identify and alert on suspicious wireless network activity, particularly when ESSID values contain unusual character sequences. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input validation in system configuration management and highlights the need for comprehensive security testing of system management components. Organizations should also consider implementing secure configuration management practices that include regular audits of wireless network configurations and proper access controls for wireless network management interfaces. The remediation process should include comprehensive testing to ensure that the updated sysconfig package properly handles all special characters and escape sequences in ESSID values without introducing new vulnerabilities.