Source: cve@mitre.org
Vulnerability in CORE-DIAG fileset in HP message catalog in HP-UX 9.05 and earlier allows local users to gain privileges.
HP-UX systems running versions 9.05 and earlier are vulnerable to a local privilege escalation vulnerability within the CORE-DIAG fileset. Successful exploitation allows attackers to gain root access, potentially leading to complete system compromise and data exfiltration. This vulnerability, dating back to 1994, highlights the importance of patching legacy systems and maintaining robust security practices.
Step 1: Identify Target System: The attacker identifies an HP-UX system running version 9.05 or earlier. Step 2: Craft Malicious Input: The attacker crafts a malicious input string, likely containing format string specifiers or designed to overflow a buffer within the message catalog processing. Step 3: Trigger Vulnerability: The attacker executes a command or interacts with a process that utilizes the vulnerable message catalog functionality, causing the malicious input to be processed. Step 4: Exploit Execution: The malicious input overwrites critical memory locations, such as the UID, effectively changing the attacker's privileges to root. Step 5: Gain Root Access: The attacker gains root access and can execute arbitrary commands with elevated privileges.
The vulnerability resides within the HP message catalog functionality of the CORE-DIAG fileset. The root cause is likely a format string vulnerability or a buffer overflow within the message catalog processing routines. Specifically, the code likely fails to properly sanitize user-supplied input when handling messages, allowing an attacker to craft a malicious input that overwrites critical memory locations, such as the process's user ID (UID), effectively granting the attacker root privileges. The lack of modern security features like address space layout randomization (ASLR) and data execution prevention (DEP) on these older systems makes exploitation significantly easier. The vulnerability could also be a result of insecure file permissions or improper handling of environment variables within the message catalog process.
Due to the age of the vulnerability, it is unlikely to be directly associated with specific APT groups. However, any threat actor targeting legacy systems would likely leverage this vulnerability. The vulnerability is not listed on the CISA KEV catalog, but its age and potential impact warrant consideration for inclusion if found in critical infrastructure.
Monitor system logs for unusual activity related to the CORE-DIAG fileset, including suspicious command executions or file access attempts.
Analyze process memory dumps for evidence of format string vulnerabilities or buffer overflows.
Check for unexpected changes in user privileges or the UID of running processes.
Network traffic analysis for any communication patterns associated with exploitation attempts, although this is less likely for a local privilege escalation.
File integrity monitoring to detect modifications to system binaries or configuration files.
Upgrade: The primary remediation is to upgrade the HP-UX system to a supported version. This is the most effective solution.
Patching (if available): If upgrading is not immediately feasible, search for and apply any available security patches for the CORE-DIAG fileset or related components. Given the age, patches may not exist.
Restrict Access: Limit local user access to the affected systems. Implement strict access control lists (ACLs) and only grant necessary privileges.
Harden the System: Disable unnecessary services and features. Implement strong password policies and regularly audit user accounts.
Monitor and Log: Implement comprehensive logging and monitoring to detect suspicious activity. Regularly review system logs for any signs of compromise.
Network Segmentation: Isolate legacy systems from the rest of the network to limit the impact of a potential breach.