Privilege Escalation Vulnerability in ecryptfs-utils: Improper Mountpoint Permission Checks
Summary
CVE-2011-1831: utils/mount.ecryptfs_private.c in ecryptfs-utils before 90 does not properly check mountpoint permissions, which allows local users to effectively replace any directory with a new filesystem, and consequently gain privil... Affects ecryptfs-utils versions < 92-1. Fixed in 92-1. How to fix ↓
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Background
ecryptfs-utils is a set of utilities for managing encrypted filesystems in Linux. It allows users to create and manage encrypted directories and files, providing an additional layer of security for sensitive data. However, prior to version 90, ecryptfs-utils had a significant vulnerability related to mountpoint permissions, which could be exploited by local users.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-1831 exists in the utils/mount.ecryptfs_private.c file of ecryptfs-utils before version 90. It fails to properly check the permissions of the mountpoint, allowing local users to replace any directory with a new filesystem through the mount system call. This can lead to privilege escalation, as users can gain unauthorized access to sensitive data or system resources.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
92-1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade ecryptfs-utilsTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can restrict access to the mountpoint directories and ensure that only authorized users have permission to mount filesystems. This can be done by modifying the directory permissions using the chmod command. For example: chmod 700 /path/to/mountpoint
Conclusion
The CVE-2011-1831 vulnerability in ecryptfs-utils poses a significant risk due to improper mountpoint permission checks, allowing local users to escalate privileges. It is crucial to upgrade to the latest version to mitigate this risk and ensure the security of your system.
See every vulnerability recorded for ecryptfs-utils →
FAQ
CVE-2011-1831 is a vulnerability in ecryptfs-utils that allows local users to escalate privileges by improperly checking mountpoint permissions.
You can check if your system is affected by using the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner, which allows you to monitor and alert for open-source vulnerabilities without requiring installation.
The risks include unauthorized access to sensitive data and potential system compromise due to privilege escalation.
Yes, you can restrict access to mountpoint directories as a temporary workaround until the package is upgraded.
If upgrading is not possible, ensure that only trusted users have access to the system and monitor for any suspicious activity.
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