CVE-2012-0427 in openSUSE
Summary
by MITRE
yast2-add-on-creator in SUSE inst-source-utils 2008.11.26 before 2008.11.26-0.9.1 and 2012.9.13 before 2012.9.13-0.8.1 allows local users to gain privileges via a crafted (1) file name or (2) directory name.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/04/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-0427 affects the yast2-add-on-creator component within SUSE's inst-source-utils package, specifically impacting versions prior to 2008.11.26-0.9.1 and 2012.9.13-0.8.1. This flaw represents a privilege escalation vulnerability that enables local attackers to elevate their system permissions through manipulation of file or directory names during the add-on creation process. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and path handling mechanisms within the yast2-add-on-creator utility, which is commonly used in SUSE Linux Enterprise Server environments for creating installation add-ons and extensions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a classic path traversal or symbolic link manipulation attack vector where malicious users can craft specially named files or directories that, when processed by the vulnerable yast2-add-on-creator, result in unintended privilege escalation. The flaw operates by exploiting insufficient sanitization of user-supplied input during the add-on creation workflow, allowing attackers to potentially execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. This vulnerability is classified under CWE-22 as "Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory ('Path Traversal')", which directly relates to improper handling of file system paths and the lack of proper validation mechanisms. The attack requires local system access but can potentially allow an attacker to gain root privileges or access to sensitive system resources.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risk to SUSE Linux Enterprise Server deployments where the yast2-add-on-creator utility is in use. The impact extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it can potentially compromise the entire system integrity and confidentiality. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to modify system files, install backdoors, or gain access to sensitive data that would otherwise require administrative privileges. The vulnerability affects systems running SUSE Linux Enterprise Server versions that utilize the vulnerable inst-source-utils package, making it particularly concerning for enterprise environments where system administration tools are frequently used for software deployment and management. Organizations using these systems may experience unauthorized access to critical system components and potential data breaches.
The mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-0427 primarily involve updating the affected SUSE inst-source-utils package to versions that contain the necessary security patches. System administrators should immediately apply the vendor-provided security updates and patches that address the input validation flaws in the yast2-add-on-creator utility. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and privilege separation mechanisms can help reduce the attack surface, although this does not fully address the core vulnerability. The mitigation approach aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which involves exploiting legitimate credentials and privileges to gain system access. Organizations should also consider implementing monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous file system activities or privilege escalation attempts. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to ensure that no other similar vulnerabilities exist within the system's administration tools and utilities, particularly those that handle user-supplied input in potentially dangerous contexts.