CVE-2020-35593:BMC PATROL Agent through 20.08.00 contains a local privilege escalation vulnerability that allows attackers to elevate privileges using the pconfig +RESTART -host command.

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BMC PATROL Agent through version 20.08.00 contains a local privilege escalation vulnerability that could allow an attacker with local access to the system to elevate their privileges. The vulnerability exists in the way the PATROL Agent processes the pconfig +RESTART -host command. An authenticated user with limited privileges can exploit this vulnerability to gain elevated system privileges, potentially leading to complete system compromise. This issue is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where BMC PATROL Agent is widely deployed for monitoring infrastructure.

Overview

The vulnerability in BMC PATROL Agent (CVE-2020-35593) allows local users to escalate privileges on affected systems. The issue exists in versions through 20.08.00 and involves the improper handling of the pconfig +RESTART -host command. When exploited, this vulnerability enables a domain user to potentially gain domain admin privileges, as detailed in security research by Securifera. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where BMC PATROL Agent is deployed across numerous systems for infrastructure monitoring. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information, system compromise, and potential lateral movement within the network.

Remediation

To remediate this vulnerability, organizations should take the following actions:

  1. Update BMC PATROL Agent to the latest version that contains the security fix for CVE-2020-35593. BMC has released patches to address this vulnerability.

  2. If immediate patching is not possible, consider implementing the following temporary mitigations:

    • Restrict local access to systems running BMC PATROL Agent
    • Monitor for suspicious activity involving the pconfig command
    • Apply the principle of least privilege for users who have access to systems with BMC PATROL Agent installed

  3. Review system logs for potential exploitation attempts of this vulnerability.

  4. Conduct a security assessment to identify any compromised systems if exploitation is suspected.

  5. Contact BMC Support for specific guidance related to your deployment if needed.

References

  1. BMC Product Security Advisory: https://community.bmc.com/s/article/SECURITY-Patrol-Agent-Local-Privilege-Escalation-in-BMC-PATROL-Agent-CVE-2020-35593 (Note: This link may be broken)

  2. BMC PATROL Agent Product Information: https://webapps.bmc.com/support/faces/az/prodallversions.jsp?seqid=304517

  3. Securifera Security Advisory: https://www.securifera.com/advisories/

  4. Detailed Exploit Analysis: https://www.securifera.com/blog/2021/03/08/bmc-patrol-agent-domain-user-to-domain-admin-part-2/

  5. MITRE CVE Entry: CVE-2020-35593

Industry ExposureMost to least
This section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.

  1. Accommodation & Food Services
    Accommodation & Food Services
  2. Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
    Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
  3. Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
    Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
  4. Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
    Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
  5. Construction
    Construction
  6. Educational Services
    Educational Services
  7. Finance and Insurance
    Finance and Insurance
  8. Health Care & Social Assistance
    Health Care & Social Assistance
  9. Information
    Information
  10. Management of Companies & Enterprises
    Management of Companies & Enterprises
  11. Manufacturing
    Manufacturing
  12. Mining
    Mining
  13. Other Services (except Public Administration)
    Other Services (except Public Administration)
  14. Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
    Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
  15. Public Administration
    Public Administration
  16. Real Estate Rental & Leasing
    Real Estate Rental & Leasing
  17. Retail Trade
    Retail Trade
  18. Transportation & Warehousing
    Transportation & Warehousing
  19. Utilities
    Utilities
  20. Wholesale Trade
    Wholesale Trade

Focus on What Matters

  1. See Everything.
  2. Identify True Risk.
  3. Proactively Mitigate Threats.

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Armis Vulnerability Intelligence Database