Source: cve@mitre.org
The installation of Sun Source (sunsrc) tapes allows local users to gain root privileges via setuid root programs (1) makeinstall or (2) winstall.
Local privilege escalation is possible on vulnerable SunOS systems by exploiting flaws in the installation process of Sun Source (sunsrc) tapes. This allows attackers to gain root access, compromising the entire system and potentially leading to data breaches or system control.
Step 1: Tape Insertion: An attacker inserts a specially crafted Sun Source (sunsrc) tape into the vulnerable system. This tape contains malicious files or scripts designed to exploit the vulnerability.
Step 2: Installation Trigger: The attacker initiates the installation process, which invokes either makeinstall or winstall (setuid root programs) to install the contents of the tape.
Step 3: Malicious Code Execution: The attacker's crafted input, potentially through file names, environment variables, or other installation parameters, is passed to makeinstall or winstall. These programs, due to a lack of proper input validation, execute the attacker's malicious code.
Step 4: Root Privilege Escalation: The malicious code executes with root privileges because makeinstall and winstall are setuid root. This allows the attacker to gain complete control of the system.
The vulnerability stems from insecure handling of setuid root programs, specifically makeinstall and winstall, during the installation of Sun Source tapes. These programs likely lack proper input validation, allowing attackers to inject malicious code or manipulate environment variables. This could lead to the execution of arbitrary commands with root privileges. The root cause is a combination of insecure file permissions, lack of input validation, and potentially unsafe use of environment variables within the installation scripts. The programs makeinstall and winstall likely execute commands without proper sanitization of user-supplied input, leading to command injection or other forms of exploitation.
Due to the age of the vulnerability, it's unlikely to be actively targeted by sophisticated APTs. However, it could be used in targeted attacks against legacy systems. This CVE is not listed in the CISA KEV catalog.
Monitor system logs for unusual activity related to makeinstall or winstall.
Analyze file system changes after installation of Sun Source tapes, looking for unexpected files or modifications to system binaries.
Network traffic analysis: While less likely, look for unusual network connections originating from the system after tape installation.
Examine the contents of Sun Source tapes for suspicious scripts or executables.
Monitor for the creation of setuid root files.
Isolate and Segment: Isolate any systems running vulnerable versions of SunOS from the rest of the network.
Patching: Apply security patches for the affected SunOS versions. This is the primary and most effective remediation step if patches are available.
Remove or Disable: If possible, remove or disable the makeinstall and winstall programs if they are not essential for system operation.
Input Validation: Implement robust input validation in any custom scripts or programs that handle user-supplied data, especially those running with elevated privileges.
Least Privilege: Ensure that users and processes operate with the minimum necessary privileges.
File Integrity Monitoring: Implement file integrity monitoring to detect unauthorized changes to system files.
Regular Security Audits: Conduct regular security audits to identify and address vulnerabilities.