Debian GNU/Linux MBR Vulnerability

BID:960

Info

Debian GNU/Linux MBR Vulnerability

Bugtraq ID: 960
Class: Configuration Error
CVE:
Remote: No
Local: Yes
Published: Feb 02 2000 12:00AM
Updated: Feb 02 2000 12:00AM
Credit: This vulnerability was discovered and reported by Pierre Beyssac <[email protected]> on February 2, 2000 on the Bugtraq mailing list.
Vulnerable: Debian Linux 2.2 pre potato
Debian Linux 2.2
Debian Linux 2.1
Debian Linux 2.0 r5
Debian Linux 2.0
Not Vulnerable:

Discussion

Debian GNU/Linux MBR Vulnerability

A vulnerability exists in the master boot record (MBR) installed by default with Debian GNU/Linux, versions 2.0 through 2.2 prereleases. By pressing the shift key during the initial portion of the boot sequence, before LILO has been invoked, the machine will display the string "1FA:" and wait for a keypress. Pressing F will result in the floppy being booted. This can allow someone with local access to bypass any bios or LILO boot passwords.

Exploit / POC

Debian GNU/Linux MBR Vulnerability

Press the SHIFT key to drop to the "1FA:" prompt.

Solution / Fix

Debian GNU/Linux MBR Vulnerability

Solution:
A patch was made available, and published as part of the 2.2.6 Debian boot floppies.

References

Debian GNU/Linux MBR Vulnerability

References:

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