CVE-2013-6433

What it actually does

Misconfigured rootwrap in OpenStack Neutron allows remote attackers to supply a crafted configuration file that bypasses intended privilege restrictions and executes commands as root.

Why it matters to the business

Compromise of cloud networking nodes can lead to full infrastructure takeover, data exposure, or prolonged service outages in OpenStack deployments.

How an attack unfolds

An attacker first identifies an exposed Neutron node running the vulnerable package, then supplies a malicious rootwrap configuration file through an allowed remote interface; the misconfigured wrapper executes attacker-controlled commands with elevated privileges.

How to fix it

Upgrade openstack-neutron to a version that correctly ships and enforces a secure rootwrap configuration; verify that /etc/neutron/rootwrap.conf and associated filters are owned by root and not world-writable.

How to confirm the fix worked

Confirm package version is at or above the fixed release, inspect ownership and permissions of rootwrap configuration files, and run the rootwrap validation utility supplied with the package.

Typical attack path

1. Scan for publicly reachable OpenStack Neutron API or metadata endpoints
2. Identify nodes running openstack-neutron package prior to 2013.2.3-7
3. Craft and deliver a malicious rootwrap.conf via permitted configuration channels
4. Trigger rootwrap execution path to obtain root shell or command execution
5. Pivot to other cloud control-plane components

How to detect it

Review historical logs for unexpected rootwrap invocations or configuration reloads from non-standard paths; examine file integrity of rootwrap.conf and filter files for unauthorized modifications around the time of suspected exposure.

What your security team should do

• Immediately inventory all OpenStack deployments for the affected neutron package version
• Apply vendor updates or backported configuration fixes within the next maintenance window
• Harden rootwrap configuration files and restrict write access to trusted accounts only
• Monitor package update channels for any downstream Ubuntu or Red Hat advisories