CVE-2015-7260 in MultiLink Automated Shutdown
Summary
by MITRE
Liebert MultiLink Automated Shutdown v4.2.4 allows local users to gain privileges by replacing the LiebertM executable file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/27/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-7260 affects Liebert MultiLink Automated Shutdown version 4.2.4, representing a critical privilege escalation flaw that enables local attackers to elevate their system access rights. This vulnerability stems from inadequate file permission controls and executable replacement mechanisms within the software installation directory. The affected system allows malicious users with local access to substitute the legitimate LiebertM executable file with a maliciously crafted alternative, thereby gaining elevated privileges during the execution process.
This security weakness manifests as a direct result of insufficient input validation and file integrity checks within the application's execution environment. The vulnerability falls under the category of privilege escalation as defined by CWE-269, where an attacker can manipulate the system to execute code with higher privileges than initially granted. The flaw specifically exploits the trust relationship between the system and the executable file, allowing unauthorized code execution with elevated system rights. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to bypass standard user restrictions and gain administrative access to the underlying operating system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with persistent access to the compromised system. Once the malicious executable replaces the legitimate one, the attacker can maintain control over the system and potentially establish backdoors for continued access. The vulnerability affects systems running the affected software version where local user accounts exist, making it particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where administrative privileges are not properly restricted. This flaw can be exploited by any local user with write access to the software installation directory, which may include standard users in some configurations.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing proper file permission controls and access restrictions for the software installation directories. System administrators should ensure that only authorized personnel have write access to critical system files and executables. The implementation of file integrity monitoring solutions can help detect unauthorized executable replacements and alert security teams to potential compromises. Additionally, applying the vendor's security patches and updates should be prioritized to address the root cause of the vulnerability. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege models and regular security audits to prevent unauthorized file modifications. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers privilege escalation through local exploitation, and T1548.002 which addresses abuse of system permissions for privilege escalation purposes.