CVE-2018-1196 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Spring Boot versions 1.5.0 - 1.5.9 and 2.0.0.M1 - 2.0.0.M7 by Dell EMC are vulnerable to a symlink attack allowing privilege escalation.

Understanding CVE-2018-1196

Spring Boot versions 1.5.0 - 1.5.9 and 2.0.0.M1 - 2.0.0.M7 are susceptible to a symlink attack that enables privilege escalation.

What is CVE-2018-1196?

Spring Boot's launch script in affected versions allows a symlink attack, granting unauthorized access to system files.

The Impact of CVE-2018-1196

The vulnerability permits the 'run_user' to overwrite and take control of any file on the system, potentially leading to unauthorized access and data compromise.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-1196

Spring Boot's vulnerability in affected versions explained.

Vulnerability Description

The embedded launch script in Spring Boot versions 1.5.0 - 1.5.9 and 2.0.0.M1 - 2.0.0.M7 is prone to a symlink attack, facilitating unauthorized file manipulation.

Affected Systems and Versions

Spring Boot versions 1.5.0 - 1.5.9
Spring Boot versions 2.0.0.M1 - 2.0.0.M7

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit the vulnerability, the application must be installed as a service, and the 'run_user' needs shell access to the server.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to address and prevent the CVE-2018-1196 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Spring Boot to a non-vulnerable version.
Avoid running the application as a service.
Restrict 'run_user' shell access.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and audit system files and permissions.
Implement the principle of least privilege for user access.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by Dell EMC to fix the vulnerability and enhance system security.