CVE-2018-1122 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

CVE-2018-1122 pertains to a security vulnerability in procps-ng version 3.3.15 that allows for local privilege escalation through the top command.

Understanding CVE-2018-1122

This CVE involves a vulnerability in the top command of procps-ng version 3.3.15 that can be exploited for local privilege escalation.

What is CVE-2018-1122?

The vulnerability in procps-ng before version 3.3.15 enables attackers to escalate privileges locally by manipulating the HOME environment variable when executing the top command.

The Impact of CVE-2018-1122

The vulnerability poses a high risk with a CVSS base score of 7.3, allowing attackers to gain elevated privileges on the system.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-1122

This section provides in-depth technical insights into the CVE-2018-1122 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in procps-ng 3.3.15 allows attackers to exploit weaknesses in the config_file() function when the HOME environment variable is not set, leading to privilege escalation.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: procps-ng, procps
Version: procps-ng 3.3.15

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Complexity: Low
Attack Vector: Local
Privileges Required: Low
User Interaction: Required
Scope: Unchanged
Impact: High
Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability Impact: High

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems from CVE-2018-1122 with the following measures:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update procps-ng to version 3.3.15 or higher.
Avoid running the top command without setting the HOME environment variable.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and apply security patches.
Implement least privilege principles to limit user capabilities.

Patching and Updates

Refer to vendor advisories and security sources for patch availability and installation instructions.