Source: cve@mitre.org
Buffer overflow in (1) queue.c and (2) queued.c in queue before 1.30.1 may allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code.
Queue, a software used for managing print jobs, is vulnerable to a buffer overflow that could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. This vulnerability, present in versions prior to 1.30.1, enables remote attackers to gain complete control of a compromised server, potentially leading to data theft, system compromise, and service disruption. Successful exploitation could result in a severe security breach.
Step 1: Target Identification: The attacker identifies a system running a vulnerable version of Queue (pre-1.30.1).
Step 2: Payload Crafting: The attacker crafts a malicious print job or command containing a payload designed to overflow a buffer within the Queue software.
Step 3: Payload Delivery: The attacker submits the crafted payload to the Queue service, typically through a network connection or a local interface.
Step 4: Buffer Overflow: The Queue software processes the malicious input, and due to a lack of bounds checking, the input overflows a buffer, overwriting adjacent memory.
Step 5: Control Hijack: The overflow overwrites the return address of a function, redirecting program execution to the attacker's injected shellcode.
Step 6: Code Execution: The attacker's shellcode executes with the privileges of the Queue service, granting the attacker control over the system.
The vulnerability lies within the queue.c and queued.c files of the Queue software, specifically in how the software handles data related to print jobs. The root cause is a buffer overflow, where the software fails to properly validate the size of data received, such as print job metadata or commands. When a specially crafted input, exceeding the allocated buffer size, is sent to the vulnerable service, it overwrites adjacent memory locations. This overwrite can include critical program data, such as the return address of a function. By carefully crafting the malicious input, an attacker can overwrite the return address with the address of their own injected code (a shellcode), effectively redirecting program execution to their code. This allows the attacker to execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the queue service, typically a high-privilege user, leading to complete system compromise.
Due to the age of the vulnerability and the availability of public exploits, it is likely that various threat actors, including both opportunistic and more sophisticated groups, could exploit this. While no specific APTs are directly linked, the ease of exploitation makes it attractive to a wide range of attackers. CISA KEV status: Not listed.
Network traffic analysis: Look for unusual network traffic patterns to the Queue service, especially large or malformed print job submissions.
Log analysis: Review Queue service logs for errors, crashes, or suspicious activity, such as unexpected command executions.
File integrity monitoring: Monitor critical Queue files (queue.c, queued.c) for unauthorized modifications.
Host-based intrusion detection systems (HIDS): Implement HIDS rules to detect suspicious process execution or file modifications related to the Queue service.
Memory forensics: Analyze memory dumps of the Queue process for evidence of buffer overflows or shellcode injection.
Upgrade to Queue version 1.30.1 or later. This is the primary and most effective remediation step.
Implement network segmentation to isolate the Queue service from critical systems.
Apply least privilege principles to the Queue service account, restricting its access to only the necessary resources.
Regularly scan systems for vulnerabilities using vulnerability scanners.
Implement a Web Application Firewall (WAF) to filter malicious requests.