CVE-2019-18897 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Discover the impact of CVE-2019-18897 affecting SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 12, SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 15, and openSUSE Factory. Learn about the vulnerability, affected systems, and mitigation steps.
A vulnerability has been discovered in the packaging of salt on SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 12, SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 15, and openSUSE Factory, allowing local attackers to gain root privileges by escalating from the user salt.
Understanding CVE-2019-18897
This CVE involves a UNIX Symbolic Link (Symlink) Following vulnerability affecting specific versions of salt-master on the mentioned systems.
What is CVE-2019-18897?
The vulnerability enables local attackers to escalate privileges from the user salt to root, potentially leading to unauthorized access and control of the affected systems.
The Impact of CVE-2019-18897
- CVSS Base Score: 8.4 (High Severity)
- Attack Vector: Local
- Attack Complexity: Low
- Privileges Required: None
- Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability Impact: High
Technical Details of CVE-2019-18897
This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows local attackers to exploit salt-master versions on SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 12, SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 15, and openSUSE Factory, leading to unauthorized root access.
Affected Systems and Versions
- SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 12 salt-master version 2019.2.0-46.83.1 and earlier
- SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 15 salt-master version 2019.2.0-6.21.1 and earlier
- openSUSE Factory salt-master version 2019.2.2-3.1 and earlier
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability allows attackers to exploit symbolic links in the salt packaging, enabling them to escalate privileges from the salt user to root.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protect your systems from CVE-2019-18897 with the following steps:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update salt-master to the patched versions provided by the vendors
- Monitor system logs for any suspicious activities
- Restrict user permissions to minimize the impact of potential attacks
Long-Term Security Practices
- Implement the principle of least privilege for user accounts
- Regularly update and patch software to address known vulnerabilities
- Conduct security audits and penetration testing to identify and mitigate risks
Patching and Updates
- Apply the latest security patches and updates for salt-master on the affected systems
- Stay informed about security advisories and best practices to enhance system security