CVE-2018-6705 in McAfee
Summary
by MITRE
Privilege escalation vulnerability in McAfee Agent (MA) for Linux 5.0.0 through 5.0.6, 5.5.0, and 5.5.1 allows local users to perform arbitrary command execution via specific conditions.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/18/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-6705 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw within McAfee Agent for Linux versions 5.0.0 through 5.0.6 and 5.5.0 through 5.5.1. This vulnerability specifically targets the agent's handling of command execution processes, creating a pathway for local attackers to escalate their privileges and execute arbitrary commands with elevated permissions. The flaw stems from improper input validation and insufficient privilege checks within the agent's command processing mechanisms.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a race condition or improper privilege separation during command execution within the McAfee Agent framework. Attackers can exploit this by crafting specific inputs or sequences that cause the agent to execute commands with higher privileges than intended. This typically occurs when the agent processes user-supplied data without adequate sanitization or privilege verification, allowing local users to manipulate the execution flow and gain unauthorized access to elevated system functions. The vulnerability operates at the system level where standard user privileges can be leveraged to achieve root or administrative access through flawed command execution pathways.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-6705 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with persistent access to compromised systems and enables further lateral movement within networks. Once exploited, attackers can install malicious software, modify system configurations, access sensitive data, or establish backdoors for continued unauthorized access. This vulnerability particularly affects organizations relying on McAfee Agent for endpoint protection, as it undermines the security posture by allowing attackers to bypass the very protection mechanisms designed to secure their systems. The impact is amplified in environments where McAfee Agent is deployed with elevated privileges or where multiple users have access to systems running these vulnerable versions.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including patching to the latest available versions of McAfee Agent, which address the privilege escalation mechanisms and input validation issues. System administrators should also consider reducing the privilege levels under which the McAfee Agent operates where possible, implementing strict input validation for all user interactions, and monitoring for suspicious command execution patterns. Network segmentation and access controls should be reviewed to limit potential attack vectors, while security monitoring systems should be configured to detect anomalous command execution behaviors. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-284 which addresses improper access control, and maps to ATT&CK techniques involving privilege escalation and command execution. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in other security agents and system components.