#VU11185 Symlink attack in systemd - CVE-2018-6954

Vulnerability identifier: #VU11185

Vulnerability risk: Low

CVSSv4.0: 1.9 [CVSS:4.0/AV:L/AC:L/AT:N/PR:L/UI:N/VC:L/VI:L/VA:N/SC:N/SI:N/SA:N/E:P/U:Clear]

CVE-ID: CVE-2018-6954

CWE-ID: CWE-61

Exploitation vector: Local

Exploit availability: No

Vulnerable software:
systemd
Server applications / Other server solutions

Vendor: Freedesktop.org

Description
The vulnerability allows a local attacker to launch symlink attack on the target system.

The weakness exists in the systemd-tmpfiles feature due to improper handling of symlinks in nonterminal path components. A local attacker can gain unauthorized access to arbitrary files.

Mitigation
Install update from vendor's website.

Vulnerable software versions

systemd: 200 - 237

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External links
https://github.com/systemd/systemd/issues/7986

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Q & A

Can this vulnerability be exploited remotely?

No. This vulnerability can be exploited locally. The attacker should have authentication credentials and successfully authenticate on the system.

Is there known malware, which exploits this vulnerability?

No. We are not aware of malware exploiting this vulnerability. However, proof of concept for this vulnerability is available.