CVE-2019-11482 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

A vulnerability known as time of check to time of use (TOCTTOU) was found by Sander Bos in apport. This vulnerability permitted a user to write core files in different directories at will.

Understanding CVE-2019-11482

A race condition vulnerability in apport allowed a user to manipulate core file writing in various directories.

What is CVE-2019-11482?

CVE-2019-11482 is a TOCTTOU vulnerability in apport that enables a user to control the writing of core files in arbitrary directories.

The Impact of CVE-2019-11482

CVSS Base Score: 4.2 (Medium)
Attack Vector: Local
Attack Complexity: High
Privileges Required: Low
Integrity Impact: Low
Availability Impact: Low
Scope: Changed
This vulnerability could allow an attacker to write core files in different directories, potentially leading to unauthorized access or data manipulation.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-11482

A detailed overview of the vulnerability in apport.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in apport arises from a race condition between reading the current working directory and writing a core dump, enabling unauthorized core file writing.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Product: apport
Vendor: Canonical
Vulnerable Versions:
2.14.1-0ubuntu3.29+esm2
2.20.1-0ubuntu2.20
2.20.9-0ubuntu7.8
2.20.11-0ubuntu8.1

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability allows an attacker to manipulate the core file writing process, potentially leading to unauthorized access or data tampering.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to mitigate and prevent the CVE-2019-11482 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update apport to a non-vulnerable version.
Monitor system logs for any suspicious core file writing activities.
Implement least privilege access to limit potential exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and apply security patches.
Conduct security audits to identify and address vulnerabilities proactively.

Patching and Updates

Canonical has released patches to address the vulnerability in apport.