The Anatomy of Privilege Escalation Attacks Explained

Imagine your computer system as a high-security building, buzzing with activity. Everyone inside has specific responsibilities and access levels, ensuring everything runs smoothly.

Now, picture a sneaky intruder who can bypass all security and sneak their way to the top floor—where the most crucial decisions are made. This is what a privilege escalation attack looks like in cybersecurity.

Privilege escalation attacks take advantage of security weaknesses and vulnerabilities to gain higher access to networks, applications, and critical systems.

Are you curious to know more? We’ll explain how these attacks work and what different types of escalations look like in practice. Then we’ll discuss a series of real-world examples that illustrate how dangerous these types of attacks can be. Let’s get started!

What is a Privilege Escalation Attack?

A privilege escalation attack happens when a user or an attacker gains higher access levels than authorised. Essentially, it’s like a standard employee suddenly obtaining the keys to the executive account.

A threat actor can use this unauthorised access to control sensitive data, install malicious software, or alter system settings, which could severely impact an organisation’s security.

Privilege escalation attacks exploit privilege escalation vulnerabilities – flaws or misconfigurations within a system that allow unauthorised access. These vulnerabilities can be found in various places, such as software applications, operating systems, or network configurations, making them a significant concern for IT professionals and security experts.

How Does Privilege Escalation Work?

Understanding how an escalation attack operates and how permissions are assigned and controlled within a system is crucial. Most systems use a hierarchical structure for permissions, with different access levels assigned to users based on their roles.

Here’s a simplified breakdown:

1. Initial Access: An attacker typically starts with a user account with limited privileges. It could result from a phishing attack, exploiting a software vulnerability, or other means.

2. Exploration: Once inside, the attacker scans the system for privilege escalation vulnerabilities-these might be weak configuration settings, outdated software, or poorly secured accounts with higher access.

3. Exploitation: Using these vulnerabilities, the attacker elevates their access privileges. For instance, they might exploit a flaw to gain administrative rights or access confidential files.

4. Escalation and Control: With elevated privileges, the attacker can execute more damaging actions, such as installing malware or altering system settings, potentially compromising the entire system.

Vertical vs Horizontal Privilege Escalation

Understanding the difference between vertical and horizontal privilege escalation is essential for recognising and mitigating these attacks accordingly.

Vertical Privilege Escalation

In vertical privilege escalation, the attacker moves up the privilege ladder. For example, some threat actors might exploit a standard user account to gain administrative rights. This type of escalation is often more severe because it allows the attacker to access critical system functions and data.

For example, attackers use LSASS memory dumps to extract credentials for vertical escalation. They deploy stealthy techniques to avoid detection, access memory dumps remotely, and leverage tools like ProcDump to elevate privileges within a compromised system.

Horizontal Privilege Escalation

Conversely, horizontal privilege escalation involves accessing other user accounts with similar privileges. For example, an attacker with access to a standard user account might exploit a vulnerability to access other users’ accounts at the same privilege level. While this doesn’t necessarily elevate their access, it allows them to manipulate or gather data from different accounts, which can still pose significant risks, especially if those accounts have access to sensitive information.

Aspect	Horizontal Privilege Escalation	Vertical Privilege Escalation
Privilege Level	Same privilege level (e.g., user to user)	Higher privilege level (e.g., user to admin)
Example	Accessing another user’s data or account without increased rights.	Gaining admin rights or superuser access from a regular user account.
Impact	Limited to accessing or altering data within the same privilege scope.	Broad impact, including potential full system compromise.
Prevention	Implement strict access controls and proper data validation.	Use role-based access control (RBAC) and enforce the principle of least privilege.

Privilege Escalation Attack Vectors

Understanding the various vectors through which attackers execute escalation attacks is crucial for defending against them.

1. Software Vulnerabilities: Flaws in operating systems, applications, or software libraries can allow attackers to escalate their privileges. Keeping software updated with the latest patches can mitigate this risk. In 2022, IT security vulnerabilities reached 25,227 thousand, rising to 29,065 thousand in 2023.

2. Misconfigurations: Incorrectly configured systems or applications can leave doors open for attackers. It is vital to configure all systems according to best practices and security standards.

3. Weak Passwords: Weak passwords can facilitate horizontal privilege escalation. Implementing strong password policies and using multi-factor authentication can help protect against this attack.

4. Unpatched Systems: Failure to update security can leave systems vulnerable to known exploits. Regularly updating and patching systems is fundamental in preventing privilege escalation vulnerabilities.

5. Social Engineering: Attackers may use social engineering tactics to trick users into providing access or performing actions that escalate their privileges. Training users on the risks and signs of phishing and other social engineering attacks is paramount.

Real-Life Incidents of Privilege Escalation Attacks

Real-world examples of privilege escalation attacks illustrate how critical being vigilant about potential vulnerabilities is.

1. Pepco Social Engineering Attack (2024): Pepco’s Hungary branch was the victim of a phishing attack, resulting in a loss of 15.5 million euros. The event highlights the urgent need to address cyber vulnerabilities through employee training, multi-factor authentication, and robust incident response.

2. The SolarWinds Hack (2020): This sophisticated attack involved a supply chain compromise where attackers inserted malicious code into SolarWinds’ software called Orion. Once inside, they used privilege escalation techniques to move laterally within networks and access high-value targets.

3. Microsoft Exchange Server Vulnerabilities (2021): Attackers exploited several zero-day vulnerabilities in Microsoft Exchange Server, using privilege escalation to gain administrative access and deploy malware across multiple systems.

Choose Sectona: Kick Privilege Escalation Attacks Away!

To strengthen these defences, you can opt for solutions like Sectona, whose Advanced Endpoint Privilege Management covers you against privilege escalation or other cyber security risks.

With us, you can implement strong security that adapts to new-age threats. Being aware and staying ahead is the key, and Sectona does it for you safely and securely. Don’t compromise on organisational safety; get more with Sectona to safeguard now!

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