CVE-2012-4106 in Unified Computing System
Summary
by MITRE
The fabric-interconnect component in Cisco Unified Computing System (UCS) uses the same privilege level for execution of every script, which allows local users to gain privileges and execute arbitrary commands via an unspecified script-execution approach, aka Bug ID CSCtq86477.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/24/2015
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-4106 resides within the fabric-interconnect component of Cisco Unified Computing System UCS, representing a critical privilege escalation flaw that undermines the system's security model. This issue specifically affects the execution environment where all scripts are executed with identical privilege levels, eliminating the necessary segregation of duties that should protect system integrity. The vulnerability stems from a design flaw in how the UCS fabric-interconnect handles script execution contexts, creating an environment where local attackers can exploit this uniform privilege model to elevate their access rights.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves an unspecified script-execution approach that fails to properly enforce privilege boundaries between different script types or user contexts. This weakness allows attackers who already have local access to the system to manipulate script execution in ways that bypass normal access controls. The flaw essentially creates a privilege escalation vector where any script execution can potentially be leveraged to gain elevated privileges, enabling attackers to execute arbitrary commands with higher system privileges than initially granted. This represents a fundamental breakdown in the principle of least privilege that should govern all system components.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-4106 is severe and far-reaching within Cisco UCS environments, as it provides local attackers with a pathway to achieve complete system compromise. Once an attacker successfully exploits this vulnerability, they can execute arbitrary commands with elevated privileges, potentially gaining access to sensitive system information, modifying critical configuration settings, or even installing malicious software. This vulnerability directly impacts the integrity and confidentiality of the entire UCS infrastructure, as it allows attackers to move laterally within the system and potentially access connected networks or storage resources. The attack surface is particularly concerning because it affects the core fabric-interconnect component that serves as a central management point for the entire UCS domain.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-276, which addresses improper privilege management, and represents a clear violation of the principle of least privilege in system design. From an adversarial perspective, this flaw maps to ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers local privilege escalation through the exploitation of system vulnerabilities. The security implications extend beyond immediate command execution, as this vulnerability could enable attackers to establish persistent access points, manipulate system logs to cover their tracks, or use the elevated privileges to compromise other connected systems within the UCS environment.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-4106 should prioritize immediate implementation of Cisco's security patches and updates, as these address the underlying privilege escalation mechanism. Organizations should implement strict access controls and monitoring for the fabric-interconnect component, including regular auditing of script execution activities and privilege changes. Network segmentation should be employed to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation, while comprehensive logging and monitoring solutions should track any suspicious script execution patterns. Additionally, regular security assessments should be conducted to identify similar privilege management issues in other system components, and administrative procedures should be updated to ensure proper privilege allocation and regular review of access rights. The vulnerability underscores the critical importance of privilege separation in enterprise infrastructure systems and the need for regular security assessments to identify design flaws that could be exploited by determined attackers.