CVE-2022-28321 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Discover the impact of CVE-2022-28321 on Linux-PAM package in openSUSE Tumbleweed, allowing unauthorized access via SSH logins. Learn how to mitigate this critical security flaw.
Linux-PAM package before version 1.5.2-6.1 for openSUSE Tumbleweed allows an authentication bypass for SSH logins due to a flaw in the pam_access module. This security vulnerability may enable unauthorized users to gain access to a system.
Understanding CVE-2022-28321
This CVE discloses a critical issue in the Linux-PAM package that affects the authentication mechanism for SSH logins in openSUSE Tumbleweed.
What is CVE-2022-28321?
The Linux-PAM package prior to version 1.5.2-6.1 on openSUSE Tumbleweed is susceptible to an authentication bypass vulnerability when users attempt to connect from an invalid or non-resolvable IP address.
The Impact of CVE-2022-28321
This vulnerability allows users with denied access to a machine to overcome restrictions and log in by exploiting flaws in the pam_access.so module, posing a significant security risk to affected systems.
Technical Details of CVE-2022-28321
This section outlines key technical aspects of the CVE, including the vulnerability description, affected systems, and the exploitation mechanism.
Vulnerability Description
The flaw lies in the pam_access.so module, which fails to properly restrict login attempts from users connecting via IP addresses that cannot be resolved through DNS, leading to an authentication bypass.
Affected Systems and Versions
Linux-PAM package versions before 1.5.2-6.1 on openSUSE Tumbleweed are impacted by this vulnerability, while other distributions are not affected.
Exploitation Mechanism
Unauthorized users can exploit this vulnerability by attempting to log in from an IP address that is not resolvable via DNS, circumventing the access restrictions.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2022-28321, immediate steps should be taken to secure affected systems and prevent unauthorized access.
Immediate Steps to Take
System administrators are advised to apply patches promptly, restrict network access, and monitor SSH logins for any suspicious activity.
Long-Term Security Practices
Implementing network segmentation, enforcing strong password policies, and conducting regular security audits can help enhance overall system security.
Patching and Updates
Users should update the Linux-PAM package to version 1.5.2-6.1 or later to mitigate the authentication bypass vulnerability in openSUSE Tumbleweed.