CVE-2018-3662 in Saffron MemoryBase
Summary
by MITRE
Escalation of privilege in Intel Saffron MemoryBase before version 11.4 potentially allows an authorized user of the Saffron application to execute arbitrary code as root.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/12/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-3662 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw within Intel Saffron MemoryBase software versions prior to 11.4. This vulnerability specifically targets the memory management and access control mechanisms implemented within the Saffron application framework, creating a pathway for authenticated users to gain elevated system privileges. The flaw exists in how the application handles memory allocation and privilege separation between user-level processes and system-level operations, allowing malicious actors with legitimate access to exploit this weakness for unauthorized system control.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and memory management practices within the Saffron MemoryBase application. When an authorized user interacts with the system, the application fails to properly enforce privilege boundaries during memory operations, creating opportunities for code injection and execution. This issue manifests through improper handling of memory segments that should be restricted to root-level access but are instead accessible to authenticated users. The vulnerability operates at the intersection of memory management and access control, where insufficient sandboxing allows privilege escalation through crafted memory operations.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe risk to systems utilizing Intel Saffron MemoryBase software. An authenticated attacker with access to the application can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary code with root privileges, effectively compromising the entire system. The implications extend beyond simple privilege escalation as this vulnerability allows for complete system takeover, enabling attackers to install malware, modify system files, establish persistence mechanisms, and exfiltrate sensitive data. The attack vector requires only legitimate application access, making it particularly dangerous in environments where multiple users have authorized access to the system.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-269, which addresses improper privilege management, and demonstrates characteristics consistent with privilege escalation techniques documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the privilege escalation tactic. This classification indicates that the flaw represents a fundamental breakdown in the system's access control mechanisms, where the application fails to properly enforce the principle of least privilege. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the vulnerability can be exploited by users who already have legitimate access to the system, making detection and prevention more challenging.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-3662 primarily focus on updating to Intel Saffron MemoryBase version 11.4 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the privilege escalation vulnerability. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit user access to the Saffron application where possible. Additional defensive measures include monitoring for unusual memory access patterns, implementing strict user access controls, and conducting regular security assessments of the application environment. System administrators should also consider disabling unnecessary features and ensuring that only authorized personnel have access to the vulnerable application to minimize potential attack surfaces.