Source: cve@mitre.org
VMS 4.0 through 5.3 allows local users to gain privileges via the ANALYZE/PROCESS_DUMP dcl command.
Local privilege escalation is possible on vulnerable VMS systems due to a flaw in the ANALYZE/PROCESS_DUMP command. Successful exploitation allows attackers to elevate their privileges to the SYSTEM account, granting them complete control over the compromised system and potentially the entire network. This vulnerability, while old, could still pose a significant risk if unpatched systems remain exposed.
Step 1: User Login: A local user logs into the vulnerable VMS system.
Step 2: Payload Creation: The attacker crafts a malicious process dump file. This file contains specially crafted data designed to overwrite critical system memory locations when processed.
Step 3: Payload Delivery: The attacker places the malicious process dump file on the system, typically in a location accessible to the user.
Step 4: Command Execution: The attacker executes the ANALYZE/PROCESS_DUMP DCL command, specifying the malicious process dump file as input.
Step 5: Vulnerability Trigger: The ANALYZE/PROCESS_DUMP command processes the malicious input, triggering the memory corruption vulnerability.
Step 6: Privilege Escalation: The memory corruption overwrites critical system data structures, such as the user's privilege level, effectively escalating the user's privileges to the SYSTEM account.
Step 7: System Compromise: The attacker now has full control over the system, including the ability to execute arbitrary commands, access sensitive data, and potentially compromise other systems on the network.
The vulnerability stems from a flaw in the ANALYZE/PROCESS_DUMP DCL command within VMS versions 4.0 through 5.3. Specifically, the command's handling of process dump files lacks proper input validation. This allows a local user to craft a malicious process dump file containing crafted data that, when processed by ANALYZE/PROCESS_DUMP, overwrites critical system data structures in memory. The root cause is likely a buffer overflow or similar memory corruption vulnerability within the command's parsing or processing logic. The lack of robust bounds checking on user-supplied input allows for the overwrite of sensitive memory locations, ultimately leading to the execution of arbitrary code with elevated privileges. The vulnerability exists due to insufficient input validation and a lack of secure coding practices in the command's implementation.
Due to the age of the vulnerability, it's difficult to definitively link it to specific APT groups. However, any threat actor targeting legacy systems would likely be aware of and potentially exploit this vulnerability. The vulnerability is not listed on the CISA KEV catalog, but its potential impact on legacy systems is significant.
Monitor system logs for the execution of the ANALYZE/PROCESS_DUMP command, especially by non-privileged users.
Analyze process dump files for suspicious content or anomalies.
Review system audit logs for unexpected privilege escalation events.
Look for file creation/modification events related to process dump files in unusual locations.
Monitor network traffic for any unusual activity originating from the compromised system after exploitation.
Patching: Apply the appropriate security patches from the vendor (Digital Equipment Corporation/Compaq/HP) for the affected VMS versions. This is the most effective solution.
Upgrade: Upgrade to a supported and patched version of VMS or a modern operating system.
Least Privilege: Enforce the principle of least privilege. Restrict user access to the ANALYZE/PROCESS_DUMP command.
File Integrity Monitoring: Implement file integrity monitoring to detect unauthorized modifications to system files.
Intrusion Detection/Prevention Systems: Deploy IDS/IPS to detect and potentially block malicious activity related to this vulnerability.
Network Segmentation: Segment the network to limit the impact of a successful compromise. Isolate legacy systems from critical assets.
Regular Security Audits: Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing to identify and address vulnerabilities.