CVE-2019-3691 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A security flaw in the way munge was packaged in SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 15 and openSUSE Factory allowed individuals with local access to upgrade their privileges from munge user to root. This vulnerability impacts munge versions earlier than 0.5.13-4.3.1 for SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 15, and earlier than 0.5.13-6.1 for openSUSE Factory.

Understanding CVE-2019-3691

This CVE involves a local privilege escalation vulnerability in the munge package affecting specific versions of SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 15 and openSUSE Factory.

What is CVE-2019-3691?

CVE-2019-3691 is a vulnerability that allows local attackers to escalate their privileges from the munge user to root due to improper packaging of the munge software in SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 15 and openSUSE Factory.

The Impact of CVE-2019-3691

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 7.7, indicating a high severity level. The impact includes high confidentiality and integrity impacts, with low attack complexity and vector being local.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-3691

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from improper packaging of the munge software, allowing local attackers to exploit it for privilege escalation from munge user to root.

Affected Systems and Versions

SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 15 versions prior to 0.5.13-4.3.1
openSUSE Factory versions prior to 0.5.13-6.1

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers with local access can exploit the vulnerability to elevate their privileges from the munge user to root, gaining unauthorized access.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2019-3691, follow these mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update munge to versions 0.5.13-4.3.1 for SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 15 and 0.5.13-6.1 for openSUSE Factory.
Monitor and restrict local access to vulnerable systems.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement the principle of least privilege to limit user access rights.
Regularly review and update software packages to patch known vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches promptly to ensure systems are protected against known vulnerabilities.