CVE-2018-16888: canonical ubuntu_linux Execution with Unnecessary Privileges

Vulnerability summary

CVE-2018-16888 is a medium (CVSS 4.7) Execution with Unnecessary Privileges vulnerability in canonical ubuntu_linux. EPSS estimates a 0.29% chance of exploitation in the next 30 days, higher than 22.2% of scored vulnerabilities.

Timeline

1. 14-01-2019
   PublishedVulnerability first disclosed.
2. 05-08-2024
   Last modifiedVulnerability information updated.

Description

It was discovered systemd does not correctly check the content of PIDFile files before using it to kill processes. When a service is run from an unprivileged user (e.g. User field set in the service file), a local attacker who is able to write to the PIDFile of the mentioned service may use this flaw to trick systemd into killing other services and/or privileged processes. Versions before v237 are vulnerable.

• CWE-250Execution with Unnecessary PrivilegesThe product performs an operation at a privilege level that is higher than the minimum level required, which creates new weaknesses or amplifies the consequences of other weaknesses.
• CWE-269Improper Privilege ManagementThe product does not properly assign, modify, track, or check privileges for an actor, creating an unintended sphere of control for that actor.