CVE-2022-31258 : Security Advisory and Response

In Checkmk before 1.6.0p29, 2.x before 2.0.0p25, and 2.1.x before 2.1.0b10, a site user can escalate to root by editing an OMD hook symlink.

Understanding CVE-2022-31258

A vulnerability in Checkmk that allows a site user to escalate privileges to root through a symlink manipulation.

What is CVE-2022-31258?

CVE-2022-31258 is a security flaw in Checkmk versions before 1.6.0p29, 2.x before 2.0.0p25, and 2.1.x before 2.1.0b10. It enables a site user to gain root access by editing an OMD hook symlink.

The Impact of CVE-2022-31258

The impact of this vulnerability is assessed as critical with a CVSS base score of 8.2. It has a high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, requiring high privileges to exploit locally without user interaction.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-31258

Details regarding the vulnerability, affected systems, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows a site user to elevate their privileges to root by tampering with an OMD hook symlink in vulnerable versions of Checkmk.

Affected Systems and Versions

Checkmk versions before 1.6.0p29, 2.x before 2.0.0p25, and 2.1.x before 2.1.0b10 are affected by this privilege escalation flaw.

Exploitation Mechanism

An attacker needs local access to the system to exploit the vulnerability by manipulating the OMD hook symlink.

Mitigation and Prevention

Recommended steps to mitigate the CVE-2022-31258 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should update to the latest patched versions of Checkmk to prevent exploitation and review access control policies.

Long-Term Security Practices

Enforce the principle of least privilege, conduct regular security audits, and educate users on secure symlink management.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates from Checkmk and promptly apply patches to secure the system.