CVE-2019-15901 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability in slicer69 doas before version 6.2 on platforms other than OpenBSD has been identified. The issue arises from the replacement of a setusercontext(3) call with a setuid(2) call on certain platforms, leading to the failure to modify group IDs and initialize secondary group IDs.

Understanding CVE-2019-15901

This CVE pertains to a security flaw in slicer69 doas that affects certain platforms.

What is CVE-2019-15901?

The vulnerability in slicer69 doas before version 6.2 on platforms other than OpenBSD results from the incorrect replacement of a setusercontext(3) call with a setuid(2) call on specific platforms like Linux and potentially NetBSD. This substitution prevents the modification of group IDs and the initialization of secondary group IDs.

The Impact of CVE-2019-15901

The security issue can potentially allow unauthorized access or privilege escalation due to the failure to properly change group IDs and initialize secondary group IDs.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-15901

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability stems from the improper replacement of a setusercontext(3) call with a setuid(2) call, leading to the inability to modify group IDs and initialize secondary group IDs.

Affected Systems and Versions

Platforms other than OpenBSD
Slicer69 doas versions before 6.2

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by attackers to potentially gain unauthorized access or escalate privileges due to the failure to change group IDs and initialize secondary group IDs.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protective measures to address the CVE.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update slicer69 doas to version 6.2 or newer to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor for any unauthorized access or unusual activities on affected systems.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and systems to the latest versions to address security vulnerabilities.
Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict unnecessary access.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches and updates provided by the software vendor promptly to address security vulnerabilities.