Source: cve@mitre.org
Buffer overflow in cddbd CD database server allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via a long log message.
Remote attackers can gain complete control of a vulnerable system by exploiting a buffer overflow in the cddbd CD database server. This allows for the execution of arbitrary commands, potentially leading to data breaches, system compromise, and denial of service.
Step 1: Target Identification: The attacker identifies a system running a vulnerable version of the cddbd server.
Step 2: Payload Preparation: The attacker crafts a malicious log message. This message includes shellcode (the attacker's desired commands) and padding designed to overwrite the return address on the stack.
Step 3: Payload Delivery: The attacker sends the crafted log message to the cddbd server, typically via a network connection.
Step 4: Buffer Overflow Trigger: The cddbd server attempts to process the excessively long log message.
Step 5: Memory Corruption: The long log message overflows the allocated buffer, overwriting adjacent memory regions, including the return address.
Step 6: Shellcode Execution: When the function handling the log message returns, the overwritten return address points to the attacker's shellcode. The shellcode is then executed with the privileges of the cddbd server.
Step 7: System Compromise: The attacker's shellcode executes, allowing them to execute arbitrary commands, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or denial of service.
Root Cause: The vulnerability lies in the cddbd server's handling of log messages. Specifically, the server fails to properly validate the size of the input provided for the log message, leading to a buffer overflow. When a long log message is received, it overwrites adjacent memory regions, including critical program data and potentially the return address. This allows an attacker to overwrite the return address with the address of malicious code (shellcode), which is then executed when the function returns. The lack of input validation and bounds checking on the log message input is the core flaw. The vulnerability is exacerbated by the server's privileged execution context, granting the attacker elevated privileges.
While no specific APT groups are directly linked to this CVE, the nature of the vulnerability makes it attractive to various threat actors. It could be used by any attacker seeking to gain initial access or escalate privileges. The age of the vulnerability suggests it might be used in conjunction with other exploits in a larger attack chain. CISA KEV status: Not Applicable (due to age and lack of current widespread exploitation).
Network traffic analysis: Examine network traffic for unusually long log messages sent to the cddbd server.
Log analysis: Review cddbd server logs for signs of errors, crashes, or unexpected behavior. Look for unusually large log entries.
Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): Implement IDS rules to detect attempts to exploit the buffer overflow, such as specific patterns in log messages or network traffic.
File Integrity Monitoring (FIM): Monitor critical system files for unauthorized modifications that might indicate shellcode execution.
Host-based Intrusion Detection Systems (HIDS): Monitor system processes and file system activity for suspicious behavior after the server receives a long log message.
Patching: Apply the latest security patches for the cddbd server or the operating system. If patching is not possible, consider disabling the cddbd service if it's not essential.
Input Validation: Implement robust input validation to ensure that log messages are within acceptable size limits. This should be done at the server level.
Least Privilege: Run the cddbd server with the least privileges necessary. This limits the impact of a successful exploit.
Address Space Layout Randomization (ASLR): Enable ASLR to make it more difficult for attackers to predict memory addresses.
Data Execution Prevention (DEP): Enable DEP to prevent code execution from data regions of memory.
Regular Security Audits: Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing to identify and address vulnerabilities.
Network Segmentation: Isolate the cddbd server from critical network segments to limit the blast radius of a successful exploit.