CVE-2018-1903 : Security Advisory and Response

IBM Sterling Connect:Direct for UNIX versions 4.2.0, 4.3.0, and 6.0.0 have a vulnerability that could allow users with limited sudo access to gain full sudo access.

Understanding CVE-2018-1903

This CVE involves a privilege escalation vulnerability in IBM Sterling Connect:Direct for UNIX.

What is CVE-2018-1903?

The vulnerability in IBM Sterling Connect:Direct for UNIX versions 4.2.0, 4.3.0, and 6.0.0 allows users with restricted sudo access to manipulate CD UNIX and obtain full sudo access.

The Impact of CVE-2018-1903

CVSS Base Score: 6.7 (Medium Severity)
Attack Vector: Local
Confidentiality Impact: High
Integrity Impact: High
Availability Impact: High
This vulnerability could be exploited by attackers to escalate privileges on affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-1903

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows users with limited sudo access to manipulate CD UNIX and gain full sudo access.

Affected Systems and Versions

IBM Sterling Connect:Direct for UNIX 4.2.0
IBM Sterling Connect:Direct for UNIX 4.3.0
IBM Sterling Connect:Direct for UNIX 6.0.0

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Complexity: Low
Privileges Required: High
Exploit Code Maturity: Unproven
The vulnerability does not require user interaction.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from this vulnerability is crucial.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the official fix provided by IBM.
Monitor sudo access and restrict it to authorized users.
Regularly review and update sudo configurations.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict unnecessary access.
Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments.

Patching and Updates

Stay updated with security bulletins from IBM.
Apply patches and updates promptly to address known vulnerabilities.