CVE-2018-11064 in Unity OE
Summary
by MITRE
Dell EMC Unity OE versions 4.3.0.x and 4.3.1.x and UnityVSA OE versions 4.3.0.x and 4.3.1.x contains an Incorrect File Permissions vulnerability. A locally authenticated malicious user could potentially exploit this vulnerability to alter multiple library files in service tools that might result in arbitrary code execution with elevated privileges. No user file systems are directly affected by this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/22/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-11064 affects Dell EMC Unity storage array operating systems and UnityVSA virtual storage appliances running specific firmware versions. This issue represents a critical access control flaw that undermines the integrity of the system's service tool components. The vulnerability stems from improper file permission configurations that allow local authenticated users to manipulate critical system libraries without adequate authorization. The affected versions include Unity OE 4.3.0.x and 4.3.1.x along with UnityVSA OE 4.3.0.x and 4.3.1.x, indicating a widespread impact across multiple deployment scenarios. The flaw specifically targets library files used by service tools, which are essential components for system maintenance and management operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves incorrect file permissions that permit malicious users with local access to modify system-critical library files. When a local attacker authenticates to the system, they can leverage these improper permissions to replace or alter library components that are loaded during service tool execution. This privilege escalation scenario occurs because the system fails to properly enforce access controls on these sensitive files, allowing unauthorized modifications that can subsequently be executed with elevated privileges. The vulnerability does not directly impact user data or file systems, but rather compromises the underlying system integrity by targeting the service tool infrastructure. This type of flaw aligns with CWE-276, which describes improper file permissions and inadequate access control mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass potential system compromise and unauthorized administrative access. A malicious user with local login credentials could leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, potentially gaining full control over the storage array operations. The implications include unauthorized data manipulation, system configuration changes, and potential persistence mechanisms that could allow continued access even after initial exploitation. Attackers could use this vulnerability to modify system behavior, disable security features, or establish backdoors within the storage environment. The lack of direct user file system impact does not diminish the severity since storage arrays often serve as critical infrastructure components where unauthorized access can lead to broader network compromise.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of proper file permission controls and system hardening measures. Organizations should upgrade to patched firmware versions provided by Dell EMC to address the root cause of the permission issues. System administrators must conduct comprehensive permission audits to identify and correct any additional files that may exhibit similar improper access controls. The remediation process should include implementing principle of least privilege for service tool components and ensuring that only authorized system processes can modify critical library files. Network segmentation and access control measures should be enhanced to limit local authentication points and monitor for suspicious file modification activities. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining proper file system integrity and access controls in enterprise storage environments, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers privilege escalation through local system exploits.