CVE-2019-3696 in Linux Enterprise Server
Summary
by MITRE
A Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory vulnerability in the packaging of pcp of SUSE Linux Enterprise High Performance Computing 15-ESPOS, SUSE Linux Enterprise High Performance Computing 15-LTSS, SUSE Linux Enterprise Module for Development Tools 15, SUSE Linux Enterprise Module for Development Tools 15-SP1, SUSE Linux Enterprise Module for Open Buildservice Development Tools 15, SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 15-LTSS, SUSE Linux Enterprise Server for SAP 15, SUSE Linux Enterprise Software Development Kit 12-SP4, SUSE Linux Enterprise Software Development Kit 12-SP5; openSUSE Leap 15.1 allows local user pcp to overwrite arbitrary files with arbitrary content. This issue affects: SUSE Linux Enterprise High Performance Computing 15-ESPOS pcp versions prior to 3.11.9-5.8.1. SUSE Linux Enterprise High Performance Computing 15-LTSS pcp versions prior to 3.11.9-5.8.1. SUSE Linux Enterprise Module for Development Tools 15 pcp versions prior to 3.11.9-5.8.1. SUSE Linux Enterprise Module for Development Tools 15-SP1 pcp versions prior to 4.3.1-3.5.3. SUSE Linux Enterprise Module for Open Buildservice Development Tools 15 pcp versions prior to 3.11.9-5.8.1. SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 15-LTSS pcp versions prior to 3.11.9-5.8.1. SUSE Linux Enterprise Server for SAP 15 pcp versions prior to 3.11.9-5.8.1. SUSE Linux Enterprise Software Development Kit 12-SP4 pcp versions prior to 3.11.9-6.14.1. SUSE Linux Enterprise Software Development Kit 12-SP5 pcp versions prior to 3.11.9-6.14.1. openSUSE Leap 15.1 pcp versions prior to 4.3.1-lp151.2.3.1.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/09/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2019-3696 represents a critical improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory issue within the pcp packaging component of multiple SUSE and openSUSE Linux distributions. This flaw stems from insufficient validation of file paths during package installation or execution processes, allowing local users to exploit the system's trust in path resolution mechanisms. The vulnerability specifically affects systems where the pcp package is installed, creating a privilege escalation vector that could enable attackers to manipulate system files through carefully crafted pathname inputs. The issue manifests when the system fails to properly sanitize or validate directory paths, potentially allowing arbitrary file overwrites with arbitrary content, which fundamentally compromises system integrity and security posture.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves path traversal mechanisms within the pcp package management system where insufficient input validation permits malicious users to specify file paths that bypass normal directory restrictions. When the system processes these paths, it fails to properly verify that the target locations remain within designated restricted directories, allowing attackers to write to arbitrary locations on the filesystem. This weakness aligns with CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The vulnerability operates at the file system level where path resolution is improperly handled, potentially allowing an attacker to overwrite critical system files, configuration files, or even executables, leading to persistent access or system compromise. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges, install backdoors, or corrupt system integrity by placing malicious content in critical system directories.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-3696 extends beyond simple file overwrites to encompass broader system compromise and potential persistent access. Local users who can exploit this vulnerability gain the ability to modify critical system components, potentially leading to privilege escalation or complete system takeover. The vulnerability affects multiple enterprise Linux distributions including SUSE Linux Enterprise High Performance Computing, Server for SAP, and various development tools modules, indicating a widespread exposure across enterprise environments. Organizations running affected versions of pcp software face significant risk as attackers could use this vulnerability to establish persistent footholds within their systems, particularly in environments where multiple users have local access. The vulnerability also impacts openSUSE Leap 15.1, extending the threat surface to community users and organizations using open source distributions.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-3696 require immediate patching of affected systems to versions that properly address the pathname validation issue. System administrators should prioritize updating pcp packages to versions that include proper path validation mechanisms, with the specific version numbers provided in the vulnerability description serving as reference points for remediation. The patching process should be conducted carefully to avoid disrupting critical system services, with thorough testing performed in non-production environments before deployment. Additionally, system hardening measures should include restricting local user privileges where possible, implementing proper file system permissions, and monitoring for suspicious file modification patterns. Organizations should also consider implementing privilege separation mechanisms and ensuring that package management processes run with minimal required privileges to reduce the impact of potential exploitation. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under privilege escalation techniques, specifically targeting the 'Path Traversal' and 'File and Directory Permissions Modification' tactics, making proactive mitigation essential for maintaining security posture.