Source: cve@mitre.org
Vulnerability in Glance and gpm programs in GlancePlus for HP-UX 9.x and earlier allows local users to access arbitrary files and gain privileges.
Local privilege escalation is possible on HP-UX systems running GlancePlus due to a flaw in the Glance and gpm programs. This vulnerability allows attackers to read and potentially modify arbitrary files, leading to system compromise and unauthorized access. Successful exploitation grants attackers elevated privileges, enabling them to execute malicious code and control the affected system.
Step 1: Identify Target: The attacker identifies a vulnerable HP-UX system running GlancePlus.
Step 2: Craft Malicious Input: The attacker crafts a malicious input, likely a specially crafted file path or command, designed to be passed to the Glance or gpm programs.
Step 3: Exploit Execution: The attacker executes the Glance or gpm program with the malicious input, typically through a local shell or other access method.
Step 4: Bypassing Security Checks: The malicious input bypasses the security checks within the vulnerable program due to the lack of input validation.
Step 5: File Access/Privilege Escalation: The program, now operating with elevated privileges, accesses the attacker-specified file (e.g., /etc/shadow) or executes a command with elevated privileges.
Step 6: System Compromise: The attacker gains unauthorized access to sensitive information or gains control of the system.
The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and improper handling of file access permissions within the Glance and gpm programs. Specifically, these programs likely fail to properly sanitize user-supplied input used in file path construction or access control checks. This allows a local user to craft malicious input, such as a specially crafted file path, to bypass security checks and access files they should not be able to. The root cause is a lack of boundary checks on user-supplied input, leading to path traversal or arbitrary file access. This could be due to a format string vulnerability, command injection, or a simple directory traversal issue.
Due to the age of the vulnerability, it's unlikely to be directly linked to specific modern APT groups. However, any threat actor targeting legacy systems could leverage this vulnerability. The vulnerability's age and potential for high impact make it a target for opportunistic attacks. CISA KEV status is unlikely due to the age and end-of-life status of the affected software. However, the potential for impact on critical infrastructure should not be discounted.
Monitor system logs (e.g., syslog) for suspicious activity related to Glance and gpm programs, including unusual file access attempts or command executions.
Analyze process execution logs for instances of Glance or gpm being run with unusual arguments or from unexpected locations.
Implement file integrity monitoring to detect unauthorized modifications to critical system files (e.g., /etc/shadow, /etc/passwd).
Network monitoring for any unusual network traffic originating from the affected system after a potential exploit.
Upgrade to a supported version of HP-UX that includes a patched version of GlancePlus or a replacement monitoring tool. This is the primary and most effective remediation.
If upgrading is not feasible, isolate the affected systems from the network to limit exposure.
Implement strict access controls to limit the users who can execute Glance and gpm programs.
Regularly review system logs for suspicious activity.
Consider using a host-based intrusion detection system (HIDS) to monitor for malicious activity.