CVE-2018-1203 in Isilon OneFS
Summary
by MITRE
In Dell EMC Isilon OneFS, the compadmin is able to run tcpdump binary with root privileges. In versions between 8.1.0.0 - 8.1.0.1, 8.0.1.0 - 8.0.1.2, and 8.0.0.0 - 8.0.0.6, the tcpdump binary, being run with sudo, may potentially be used by compadmin to execute arbitrary code with root privileges.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/30/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-1203 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw within Dell EMC Isilon OneFS storage systems. This issue affects multiple versions of the operating system including specific releases in the 8.1.x and 8.0.x series. The vulnerability stems from improper privilege management within the system's sudo configuration, creating a dangerous pathway for unauthorized code execution. The compadmin user, which typically operates with administrative privileges within the Isilon environment, can leverage this flaw to escalate their privileges to root level through the tcpdump binary execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the tcpdump binary being configured with sudo permissions that allow the compadmin user to execute it with elevated privileges. This misconfiguration creates a privilege escalation vector where an attacker with compadmin credentials can potentially execute arbitrary code with root privileges. The flaw exists in the sudoers configuration file where the tcpdump binary is granted root execution rights without proper restrictions or validation mechanisms. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-276, which specifically addresses improper privileges, and represents a classic case of insecure sudo configuration that enables privilege escalation attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching within enterprise storage environments. An attacker who gains access to a compadmin account can immediately escalate privileges to root level, gaining complete control over the storage system. This elevated access allows for comprehensive system manipulation including data exfiltration, system modification, installation of persistent backdoors, and complete disruption of storage services. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it affects the core storage infrastructure, potentially compromising thousands of terabytes of data across enterprise networks. The impact extends beyond immediate system compromise as it can serve as a foothold for broader network infiltration attacks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-1203 should focus on immediate remediation of the sudo configuration and implementation of comprehensive access controls. Organizations should first update their Isilon OneFS systems to versions that have patched this vulnerability, typically those beyond the affected releases mentioned in the CVE. System administrators should review and tighten sudo permissions for the tcpdump binary, ensuring that it does not execute with root privileges unless absolutely necessary. The principle of least privilege should be strictly enforced, with access to critical system binaries restricted to only those users who require such capabilities for legitimate operational purposes. Additionally, implementing network segmentation and monitoring for suspicious sudo usage can help detect potential exploitation attempts. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers privilege escalation through the exploitation of system configuration weaknesses, making it a significant concern for enterprise security teams implementing comprehensive threat detection strategies.