CVE-2012-4095 in Unified Computing System
Summary
by MITRE
The local file editor in the fabric-interconnect component in Cisco Unified Computing System (UCS) allows local users to gain privileges, and read or modify arbitrary files, via unspecified key bindings, aka Bug ID CSCtn04521.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/01/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-4095 resides within the fabric-interconnect component of Cisco Unified Computing System UCS, representing a critical privilege escalation and arbitrary file access flaw. This vulnerability specifically targets the local file editor functionality that operates within the UCS management interface, creating a pathway for local attackers to escalate their privileges and manipulate system files. The issue stems from unspecified key bindings within the file editor component, which inadvertently grants unauthorized access to system resources that should remain restricted to privileged users. The vulnerability affects Cisco UCS systems where the fabric-interconnect component is deployed, potentially compromising the entire computing infrastructure managed by the system.
The technical flaw manifests through improper input validation and access control mechanisms within the local file editor. When local users interact with the file editor interface, the system fails to properly authenticate or authorize file operations, allowing malicious actors to exploit keyboard shortcuts or command sequences that bypass normal security controls. This weakness creates a direct pathway for privilege escalation where unprivileged local accounts can execute commands with elevated privileges. The unspecified key bindings referenced in the vulnerability description indicate that the system's keyboard input handling mechanism contains hardcoded or predictable shortcut combinations that, when triggered, provide access to restricted file operations. This flaw aligns with CWE-284, which addresses improper access control, and represents a classic case of insufficient authorization checks in user interface components.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple privilege escalation, as it enables comprehensive system compromise through arbitrary file read and modification capabilities. Local attackers who exploit this vulnerability can access sensitive configuration files, system logs, and critical operational data that should remain protected. The ability to modify arbitrary files opens doors for persistent backdoor installation, configuration corruption, and data manipulation that can severely disrupt system operations. Attackers can potentially alter system binaries, modify network configurations, or corrupt critical system files to maintain access or cause denial of service conditions. This vulnerability particularly threatens enterprise environments where UCS systems manage critical infrastructure, as it provides a direct route to compromise the entire computing fabric. The impact is amplified by the fact that local access is often easier to obtain than remote access, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where physical or administrative access is not strictly controlled.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-4095 should focus on immediate patch deployment from Cisco, which addresses the specific key binding and access control issues within the fabric-interconnect component. Organizations should implement strict access controls limiting local administrative access to only authorized personnel and establish comprehensive monitoring of system file access patterns. Network segmentation and privilege separation practices should be reinforced to minimize the potential impact of local privilege escalation. The vulnerability's characteristics align with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers privilege escalation through local exploitation, and T1070, covering indicator removal on host systems. Security teams should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify systems running affected UCS versions and implement layered defensive measures including file integrity monitoring, privileged access management, and regular security audits. Additionally, organizations should review their local access policies and implement multi-factor authentication for administrative accounts to reduce the attack surface available to potential exploiters.