CVE-2018-9310 in sysinfo
Summary
by MITRE
An issue was discovered in MagniComp SysInfo before 10-H81 if setuid root (the default). This vulnerability allows any local user on a Linux/UNIX system to run SysInfo and obtain a root shell, which can be used to compromise the local system.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/01/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-9310 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw within MagniComp SysInfo software version 10-H81 and earlier. This issue stems from the software's default configuration where it operates with setuid root permissions, creating a fundamental security weakness that exposes systems to local privilege escalation attacks. The vulnerability specifically affects Linux and UNIX operating systems where the software is installed with elevated privileges, making it a significant concern for system administrators and security professionals managing enterprise environments.
The technical flaw manifests through the improper handling of privileges within the SysInfo application's execution environment. When executed with setuid root capabilities, the application fails to properly drop root privileges before performing operations that should be performed with reduced privileges. This design flaw allows any local user to exploit the software's functionality and gain root-level access to the system. The vulnerability operates through a privilege escalation vector that directly leverages the setuid bit mechanism, which is a well-documented security pattern that can be manipulated when proper privilege management is not implemented correctly. This weakness aligns with CWE-276, which describes improper privilege management, and represents a classic example of insecure use of setuid programs that violates fundamental security principles.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple local privilege escalation to encompass complete system compromise. Once a local user successfully exploits the vulnerability, they gain root shell access, which provides unrestricted control over the entire system. This includes the ability to modify critical system files, install malicious software, access sensitive data, and potentially establish persistent backdoors. The implications are particularly severe in enterprise environments where multiple users may have local access to systems, as this vulnerability can be exploited by any user with basic login credentials. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires no special privileges or external network access, making it a low-effort, high-impact vulnerability that can be exploited by both malicious insiders and external attackers who have gained initial access to the system. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers local privilege escalation through the exploitation of system-level vulnerabilities.
The recommended mitigations for this vulnerability involve immediate remediation actions including upgrading to MagniComp SysInfo version 10-H81 or later, which contains the necessary security fixes. System administrators should also consider removing the setuid bit from the SysInfo executable if the application's functionality does not require root privileges for normal operation. Additionally, implementing proper privilege separation mechanisms and conducting regular security audits of setuid programs can help prevent similar issues. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of following the principle of least privilege and proper privilege management in system design, as outlined in security frameworks such as the NIST Cybersecurity Framework. Organizations should also implement monitoring solutions to detect unauthorized privilege escalation attempts and ensure that all setuid programs undergo thorough security review processes before deployment. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing should include evaluation of setuid program configurations to identify potential privilege escalation vectors that could compromise system integrity and confidentiality.