CVE-2019-10166 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2019-10166, a high-severity vulnerability in libvirt versions 4.x.x before 4.10.1 and 5.x.x before 5.4.1. Understand the impact, affected systems, exploitation mechanism, and mitigation steps.
A vulnerability in libvirtd versions 4.x.x before 4.10.1 and 5.x.x before 5.4.1 allows readonly clients to modify managed save state files, potentially leading to the execution of arbitrary programs.
Understanding CVE-2019-10166
This CVE involves a security flaw in libvirt that could be exploited by local attackers to execute unauthorized programs.
What is CVE-2019-10166?
The vulnerability in libvirtd versions 4.x.x before 4.10.1 and 5.x.x before 5.4.1 enables readonly clients to alter managed save state files using the virDomainManagedSaveDefineXML() API. This manipulation could result in the execution of a program chosen by the attacker when the associated domain is resumed.
The Impact of CVE-2019-10166
The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 7.8, indicating a high severity level. It affects confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with a low level of privileges required for exploitation.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-10166
This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows readonly clients to modify managed save state files, potentially leading to the execution of unauthorized programs upon domain resumption.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: libvirt
- Vendor: libvirt
- Versions Affected: 4.x.x before 4.10.1, 5.x.x before 5.4.1
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by local attackers to manipulate managed save state files using a specific API, enabling the execution of unauthorized programs.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2019-10166 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply patches provided by the vendor promptly to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Monitor system logs for any suspicious activities related to file modifications.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict access to critical system functions.
- Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing to identify and address vulnerabilities proactively.
Patching and Updates
Regularly update and patch the libvirt software to ensure that known vulnerabilities are addressed promptly.