CVE-2018-1386 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

IBM Tivoli Workload Automation for AIX (IBM Workload Scheduler 8.6, 9.1, 9.2, 9.3, and 9.4) contains directories with improper permissions that could allow a local user to gain root privileges. This vulnerability, identified by IBM X-Force ID 138208, poses a high risk with a CVSS base score of 7.4.

Understanding CVE-2018-1386

This CVE involves inadequate directory permissions in IBM Tivoli Workload Automation for AIX, potentially leading to privilege escalation for local users.

What is CVE-2018-1386?

The vulnerability in IBM Workload Scheduler versions 8.6 to 9.4 allows local users with specific privileges to elevate their access to root privileges, compromising system security.

The Impact of CVE-2018-1386

The vulnerability's high severity rating stems from its potential to grant unauthorized users elevated system privileges, leading to unauthorized access and control.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-1386

The technical aspects of the vulnerability provide insight into its nature and potential exploitation.

Vulnerability Description

IBM Tivoli Workload Automation for AIX has directories with improper permissions
Local users with specific access can exploit this to gain root privileges

Affected Systems and Versions

Workload Scheduler versions 8.6, 9.1, 9.2, 9.3, and 9.4 by IBM

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Complexity: High
Attack Vector: Local
Privileges Required: None
Scope: Unchanged
User Interaction: None
CVSS Vector String: CVSS:3.0/A:H/AC:H/AV:L/C:H/I:H/PR:N/S:U/UI:N

Mitigation and Prevention

Addressing CVE-2018-1386 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches provided by IBM
Restrict access to vulnerable systems
Monitor for unauthorized access attempts

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and update directory permissions
Implement the principle of least privilege for user access
Conduct security training for system administrators

Patching and Updates

IBM has released patches to address the vulnerability
Regularly update the Workload Scheduler software to the latest secure version