CVE-2019-4558 : Security Advisory and Response

A vulnerability concerning security has been detected in various versions of IBM Spectrum Scale, ranging from V5.0.0.0 to V5.0.3.2 and V4.2.0.0 to V4.2.3.17. This vulnerability could potentially enable an attacker with local access to acquire root privileges through the injection of parameters into setuid files.

Understanding CVE-2019-4558

This CVE involves a security vulnerability in IBM Spectrum Scale that could lead to privilege escalation for local attackers.

What is CVE-2019-4558?

The vulnerability in IBM Spectrum Scale versions V4.2.0.0 to V4.2.3.17 and V5.0.0.0 to V5.0.3.2 allows local attackers to gain root privileges by injecting parameters into setuid files.

The Impact of CVE-2019-4558

CVSS Score: 8.1 (High)
Attack Vector: Network
Confidentiality Impact: High
Integrity Impact: High
Availability Impact: High
Privileges Required: None
Exploit Code Maturity: Unproven
Remediation Level: Official Fix
Report Confidence: Confirmed
This vulnerability poses a significant risk as it could lead to unauthorized privilege escalation on affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-4558

This section provides detailed technical information about the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows local attackers to exploit IBM Spectrum Scale versions V4.2.0.0 to V4.2.3.17 and V5.0.0.0 to V5.0.3.2 to gain root privileges by injecting parameters into setuid files.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Systems: IBM Spectrum Scale
Affected Versions:
Spectrum Scale 4.2.0.0
Spectrum Scale 5.0.0.0
Spectrum Scale 4.2.3.17
Spectrum Scale 5.0.3.2

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by local attackers who have access to the system, allowing them to inject parameters into setuid files and gain root privileges.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-4558 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply official fixes provided by IBM for the affected versions.
Monitor system logs for any suspicious activities indicating exploitation attempts.
Restrict access to vulnerable systems to authorized personnel only.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch IBM Spectrum Scale to address security vulnerabilities.
Implement the principle of least privilege to limit user access rights and prevent unauthorized privilege escalation.
Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing to identify and mitigate potential vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

IBM has released official fixes for the affected versions of Spectrum Scale. Ensure timely application of these patches to secure the systems.