CVE-2018-12175 in Distribution for Python
Summary
by MITRE
Default install directory permissions in Intel Distribution for Python (IDP) version 2018 may allow an unprivileged user to escalate privileges via local access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/23/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-12175 affects Intel Distribution for Python version 2018 and represents a privilege escalation flaw stemming from insecure default directory permissions. This issue arises within the installation process where the software creates directories with overly permissive access controls that allow unprivileged local users to gain elevated system privileges. The vulnerability specifically targets the default installation paths where the software places its components and configuration files, creating opportunities for malicious actors to manipulate the system environment and execute code with higher privileges than initially intended.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the improper implementation of file system permissions during the installation process of Intel Distribution for Python. When the software installs itself on a system, it creates directory structures that do not properly restrict access permissions for local users. This misconfiguration typically involves setting world-writable or group-writable permissions on critical installation directories, allowing any local user to modify or replace executable files, configuration scripts, or shared libraries within the installation path. The flaw operates under the principle that default installations should not provide unnecessary access rights to unprivileged users, yet the software fails to enforce proper access controls that would prevent such privilege escalation scenarios.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates significant security risks for systems running Intel Distribution for Python 2018, particularly in multi-user environments where multiple local accounts exist. Attackers can exploit this weakness by placing malicious binaries or scripts in the affected directories, which will then be executed with elevated privileges when the legitimate software components are accessed or run. The vulnerability essentially allows for a form of local privilege escalation that bypasses normal user authentication mechanisms, potentially enabling attackers to gain administrative access to the system, modify critical system files, or establish persistent backdoors. This type of attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires minimal privileges to exploit and can be automated once the target system is identified.
The vulnerability aligns with several established security frameworks and classifications including CWE-276, which addresses improper file permissions, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1068, involving privilege escalation through local exploits. Organizations using Intel Distribution for Python 2018 should immediately implement mitigations such as manually adjusting directory permissions to restrict access to only authorized users and groups, applying the latest security patches from Intel, and conducting comprehensive system audits to identify any existing malicious modifications to the installation directories. Additionally, system administrators should consider implementing privilege separation measures and monitoring for unauthorized changes to critical system directories. The recommended remediation approach involves not only fixing the immediate permission issues but also establishing proper security configuration management practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in other software installations.