CVE-2017-1233 in Remote Control
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Remote Control v9 could allow a local user to use the component to replace files to which he does not have write access and which he can cause to be executed with Local System or root privileges. IBM X-Force ID: 123912.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/02/2021
IBM Remote Control version 9 contains a critical local privilege escalation vulnerability that stems from improper file replacement mechanisms within the component's architecture. This flaw operates through a privilege escalation vector where a local attacker can manipulate file system operations to overwrite protected files that would normally require elevated permissions to modify. The vulnerability specifically affects systems where the IBM Remote Control component runs with elevated privileges, creating a scenario where malicious file replacement can occur even when the attacker lacks direct write permissions to the target files. The technical implementation leverages the component's inherent trust model and file handling procedures that do not properly validate file ownership or access controls during replacement operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it enables attackers to execute arbitrary code with the highest system privileges available. When the replaced files are subsequently executed by the system with Local System or root privileges, the attacker gains complete control over the affected system. This represents a severe security compromise that allows for persistent access, data exfiltration, and further lateral movement within the network. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it exploits legitimate system components rather than relying on external attack vectors, making detection more challenging. According to the CWE classification, this vulnerability maps to CWE-276: Incorrect Permission Assignment for Critical Resources, which specifically addresses improper access control mechanisms.
From an adversary perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068: Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, where attackers leverage system weaknesses to gain higher-level access rights. The attack chain typically involves identifying the IBM Remote Control component, understanding its file replacement behavior, and crafting malicious files that will be executed with elevated privileges upon replacement. The vulnerability demonstrates a fundamental flaw in the principle of least privilege implementation within the IBM Remote Control software, where the component operates with unnecessary elevated permissions during file operations. Organizations affected by this vulnerability face significant risk of complete system compromise, as the attacker can establish persistence mechanisms, modify system configurations, and access sensitive data without detection.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching of the IBM Remote Control component to address the file replacement vulnerability. System administrators must also implement strict file system access controls and monitor for unauthorized file modifications to the IBM Remote Control component directories. Additional defensive measures include restricting the execution permissions of the component and implementing application whitelisting policies to prevent unauthorized file replacement operations. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper privilege separation and access control validation within system components, particularly those that operate with elevated privileges. Organizations should conduct comprehensive security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other system components and ensure that all software components follow secure coding practices that prevent unauthorized privilege escalation.