CVE-2021-31998 : Security Advisory and Response

A Incorrect Default Permissions vulnerability in the packaging of inn of SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 11-SP3; openSUSE Backports SLE-15-SP2, openSUSE Leap 15.2 allows local attackers to escalate their privileges from the news user to root. This issue affects: SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 11-SP3 inn version inn-2.4.2-170.21.3.1 and prior versions. openSUSE Backports SLE-15-SP2 inn versions prior to 2.6.2. openSUSE Leap 15.2 inn versions prior to 2.6.2.

Understanding CVE-2021-31998

This CVE details an Incorrect Default Permissions vulnerability in the 'inn' package of SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 11-SP3, openSUSE Backports SLE-15-SP2, and openSUSE Leap 15.2, allowing local attackers to escalate privileges.

What is CVE-2021-31998?

CVE-2021-31998 is a vulnerability in the 'inn' package that permits local attackers to elevate their privileges from the 'news' user to 'root'. It affects specific versions of SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 11-SP3, openSUSE Backports SLE-15-SP2, and openSUSE Leap 15.2.

The Impact of CVE-2021-31998

The vulnerability poses a medium severity threat with a CVSS base score of 6.8. It allows local attackers to gain unauthorized root access, potentially leading to further system compromise and data breaches.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-31998

This section covers the specific technical details of the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises due to Incorrect Default Permissions in the packaging of the 'inn' package, enabling local users to exploit it for privilege escalation.

Affected Systems and Versions

SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 11-SP3 with 'inn' version inn-2.4.2-170.21.3.1 and earlier
openSUSE Backports SLE-15-SP2 with 'inn' versions prior to 2.6.2
openSUSE Leap 15.2 with 'inn' versions prior to 2.6.2

Exploitation Mechanism

Local attackers can exploit this vulnerability by leveraging the Incorrect Default Permissions in the 'inn' packaging to elevate their privileges, potentially gaining root access.

Mitigation and Prevention

It is crucial to implement immediate steps to mitigate the risks posed by CVE-2021-31998 and prevent potential exploits.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches provided by the respective vendors promptly.
Monitor system activity for any signs of unauthorized privilege escalation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to address known vulnerabilities.
Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict user permissions.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that the affected systems are updated with the latest patches released by SUSE and openSUSE to remediate the Incorrect Default Permissions vulnerability in the 'inn' package, thus preventing local privilege escalation.