CVE-2015-4948 in AIX
Summary
by MITRE
netstat in IBM AIX 5.3, 6.1, and 7.1 and VIOS 2.2.x, when a fibre channel adapter is used, allows local users to gain privileges via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/24/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-4948 affects the netstat utility in IBM AIX operating systems across versions 5.3, 6.1, and 7.1, as well as VIOS 2.2.x releases. This security flaw specifically manifests when fibre channel adapters are present in the system configuration, creating a privilege escalation pathway for local attackers. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and privilege handling within the netstat command when processing fibre channel related network information, allowing malicious users with local access to potentially elevate their system privileges.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the netstat utility's interaction with fibre channel hardware drivers and system resources. When fibre channel adapters are present, the netstat command attempts to gather detailed information about these storage connections, which creates an attack surface where improper privilege checks can be exploited. The unspecified vectors suggest that the flaw likely involves improper access control mechanisms or privilege elevation techniques that allow a local user to manipulate system calls or access restricted resources that should only be available to privileged processes. This type of vulnerability typically falls under the category of privilege escalation flaws where standard user accounts can gain elevated system permissions through manipulation of system utilities.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-4948 represents a significant security risk for IBM AIX environments, particularly in enterprise data centers where fibre channel storage networks are commonly deployed. Local privilege escalation vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous because they require minimal attack vectors and can be exploited by users who already have access to the system through legitimate means such as user accounts or SSH sessions. Once exploited, attackers could gain root or administrative privileges, potentially allowing them to modify system files, install backdoors, access sensitive data, or disrupt system operations. The presence of fibre channel adapters in enterprise environments makes this vulnerability particularly concerning as it affects systems handling critical storage infrastructure.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including applying the relevant IBM security patches and updates released for AIX and VIOS systems. System administrators should also consider implementing additional security controls such as restricting local user access where possible, monitoring for unusual privilege escalation attempts, and ensuring that only authorized personnel have local access to affected systems. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-276, which addresses improper privilege management, and could potentially map to ATT&CK technique T1068, privilege escalation through local exploits. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be performed to identify any unpatched systems within the enterprise environment, as this vulnerability could be leveraged as a stepping stone for broader system compromise attacks.