CVE-2018-6536 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE-2018-6536 article provides insights into a vulnerability found in Icinga 2.x versions 2.0 through 2.8.1, allowing local users to terminate processes by manipulating the icinga2.pid file.

Understanding CVE-2018-6536

This section delves into the impact and technical details of the CVE-2018-6536 vulnerability.

What is CVE-2018-6536?

CVE-2018-6536 is a security flaw in Icinga 2.x versions 2.0 through 2.8.1. It arises when the daemon creates an icinga2.pid file after switching to a non-root account, enabling local users to potentially terminate processes.

The Impact of CVE-2018-6536

The vulnerability allows local users to exploit the icinga2.pid file to terminate arbitrary processes, posing a risk to system integrity and security.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-6536

This section provides a detailed overview of the vulnerability's technical aspects.

Vulnerability Description

The issue in Icinga 2.x versions 2.0 through 2.8.1 involves the creation of an icinga2.pid file post switching to a non-root account, enabling local users to kill processes by modifying this file.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Icinga 2.x
Versions: 2.0 through 2.8.1

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit the vulnerability, a local user must have access to the non-root account to modify the icinga2.pid file before a root script executes the "kill

cat /pathname/icinga2.pid

" command.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems from CVE-2018-6536 with the following steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Monitor and restrict access to the non-root account.
Regularly check and secure the icinga2.pid file.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement the principle of least privilege for user accounts.
Conduct regular security audits and updates.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches and updates provided by Icinga to address the vulnerability.