CVE-2014-6185 in Tivoli Storage Manager
Summary
by MITRE
dsmtca in the client in IBM Tivoli Storage Manager (TSM) 6.3 before 6.3.2.3, 6.4 before 6.4.2.2, and 7.1 before 7.1.1.3 does not properly restrict shared-library loading, which allows local users to gain privileges via a crafted DSO file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/16/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-6185 affects IBM Tivoli Storage Manager client components, specifically the dsmtca process responsible for managing storage operations. This issue resides in versions 6.3 before 6.3.2.3, 6.4 before 6.4.2.2, and 7.1 before 7.1.1.3 of the TSM client software. The flaw represents a critical security weakness in the software's dynamic shared object loading mechanism, creating potential privilege escalation pathways for local attackers. The vulnerability manifests through improper restrictions on shared-library loading, allowing maliciously crafted dynamic shared objects to be loaded with elevated privileges.
The technical flaw stems from insufficient validation of dynamic shared object files within the dsmtca client process. When the application loads shared libraries, it fails to properly verify the integrity and source of these components, enabling local users to substitute legitimate shared libraries with malicious ones. This improper restriction creates a path for privilege escalation attacks where attackers can manipulate the loading process to execute arbitrary code with the elevated privileges of the TSM client process. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-427, which describes uncontrolled search path modifications, and CWE-276, addressing incorrect permissions for critical resources. The flaw essentially allows attackers to exploit the legitimate library loading mechanism to gain unauthorized access to elevated system privileges.
Operationally, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations relying on IBM Tivoli Storage Manager for data protection and backup operations. Local attackers with basic system access can leverage this weakness to escalate their privileges and potentially gain administrative control over storage management processes. The impact extends beyond simple privilege escalation as the TSM client typically operates with elevated permissions to perform storage operations, making successful exploitation particularly dangerous. Attackers could potentially access sensitive backup data, modify storage configurations, or disrupt critical backup operations. This vulnerability particularly affects environments where multiple users share systems or where security boundaries are not properly enforced, as the local privilege escalation could lead to broader system compromise. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under privilege escalation techniques, specifically targeting the 'Dynamic Linking' and 'Exploitation for Privilege Escalation' tactics.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-6185 primarily involve applying the vendor-provided security patches and updates released by IBM. Organizations should immediately upgrade their TSM client installations to versions 6.3.2.3, 6.4.2.2, or 7.1.1.3, which contain the necessary fixes for the shared-library loading restrictions. System administrators should also implement additional security controls such as restricting local user access to the TSM client installation directories and implementing proper file integrity monitoring for critical system components. The remediation process should include thorough testing of patches in controlled environments before deployment to production systems. Additionally, organizations should conduct security assessments to identify any systems still running vulnerable versions and establish monitoring procedures to detect potential exploitation attempts. Network segmentation and access control measures can provide additional layers of protection, while regular security audits should verify that proper privilege management is maintained across all storage management components.