Local User Vulnerability Affecting Usermode Package in libuser
CVE-2015-3246

5.1MEDIUM

Key Information:

Vendor: Redhat
Status: Libuser
Vendor: CVE Published:; 11 August 2015

Badges

👾 Exploit Exists🟡 Public PoC🦅 CISA Reported

What is CVE-2015-3246?

The vulnerability in the libuser library affects the userhelper program, allowing for a local user to directly modify the /etc/passwd file. If this modification fails, it may result in an inconsistent file state, leading to a denial of service. Additionally, this issue can potentially be exploited in conjunction with another vulnerability to elevate privileges.

CISA has reported CVE-2015-3246

CISA provides regional cyber and physical services to support security and resilience across the United States. CISA monitor the most dangerious vulnerabilities and have identifed CVE-2015-3246 as being exploited but is not known by the CISA to be used in ransomware campaigns. This is subject to change at pace

The CISA's recommendation is: Apply mitigations in accordance with vendor instructions, ensuring compliance with CISA’s BOD 26-04 Prioritizing Security Updates Based on Risk (see URL in Notes) guidance and CISA’s “Forensics Triage Requirements” (see URL in Notes). Follow applicable BOD 26-04 guidance for cloud services or discontinue use of the product if mitigations are unavailable. Stakeholders are responsible for evaluating each asset's internet exposure and ensuring adherence to BOD 26-04 patching guidelines.

Exploit Proof of Concept (PoC)

PoC code is written by security researchers to demonstrate the vulnerability can be exploited. PoC code is also a key component for weaponization which could lead to ransomware.

CVE-2015-3246 - Proof of Concept