IBM AIX infod allows local users to gain root access
| aix-infod (1407) |  High Risk |
Description:
The AIX infod (Information Explorer daemon) program could allow a local attacker to gain root privileges. A local attacker can send the infod daemon false information to trick the daemon to start an X display. If the attacker sends false environment variables as well as the UID and GID of 0, infod spawns an X display with root privileges.
Consequences:
Gain Access
Remedy:
For IBM AIX 3.2.x:
Upgrade to the latest version of infod (4.0 or later), as listed in Repend Security Incorporated Alert Advisory (RSI) RSI.0011.11-12-98.AIX.INFOD. See References.
For IBM AIX 4.1.x:
Apply the IX84640 patch, as listed in Repend Security Incorporated Alert Advisory (RSI) RSI.0011.11-12-98.AIX.INFOD. See References.
For IBM AIX 4.2.x:
Apply the IX84641 patch, as listed in Repend Security Incorporated Alert Advisory (RSI) RSI.0011.11-12-98.AIX.INFOD. See References.
For IBM AIX 4.3.x:
Apply the IX84642 patch, as listed in Repend Security Incorporated Alert Advisory (RSI) RSI.0011.11-12-98.AIX.INFOD. See References.
As a workaround, disable the infod daemon.
References:
- BugTraq Mailing List, 19 Nov 1998 16:50:44: RSI.0011.11-09-98.AIX.INFOD.
- IBM Web site: Support & downloads.
- Repent Security Incorporated (RSI) RSI.0011.11-12-98.AIX.INFOD: AIX infod.
- CVE-1999-0118: AIX infod allows local users to gain root access through an X display.
- OSVDB ID: 7987: IBM AIX infod X Display Local Privilege Escalation
Platforms Affected:
- IBM AIX 3.2.0
- IBM AIX 3.2.4
- IBM AIX 3.2.5
- IBM AIX 4.1.1
- IBM AIX 4.1.2
- IBM AIX 4.1.3
- IBM AIX 4.1.4
- IBM AIX 4.1.5
- IBM AIX 4.2.0
- IBM AIX 4.2.1
- IBM AIX 4.2.1.12
- IBM AIX 4.3
- IBM AIX 4.3.1
- IBM AIX 4.3.2
- IBM AIX 4.3.3
Reported:
Nov 19, 1998
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