CVE-2001-0011 in BIND
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in nslookupComplain function in BIND 4 allows remote attackers to gain root privileges.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/10/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2001-0011 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the nslookupComplain function of BIND version 4, a widely deployed Domain Name System implementation that serves as the foundation for internet name resolution services. This vulnerability specifically affects the nslookup utility, which is part of the BIND software suite and provides command-line tools for querying DNS servers. The buffer overflow occurs when the nslookupComplain function processes user input without proper bounds checking, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by remote attackers to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the nslookupComplain function, which is designed to handle complaint messages or error reporting during DNS lookups. When malicious input exceeds the allocated buffer size, it overflows into adjacent memory regions, potentially allowing an attacker to overwrite critical program variables, return addresses, or function pointers. This type of buffer overflow vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 as "Stack-based Buffer Overflow" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter execution. The flaw exists in the DNS resolution process where user-supplied data is directly processed without adequate sanitization, creating a pathway for privilege escalation attacks.
The operational impact of CVE-2001-0011 is severe and far-reaching, as it enables remote code execution with root privileges on systems running vulnerable versions of BIND 4. This means that an attacker could potentially compromise entire DNS infrastructure servers, gaining complete control over name resolution services and potentially using the compromised system as a launch point for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability particularly affects organizations that rely on BIND 4 for their DNS services, as these systems often serve as critical infrastructure components that are frequently targeted by attackers seeking to establish persistent access or disrupt network operations. The remote exploitation capability makes this vulnerability especially dangerous because attackers do not need physical access to the system to exploit it.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate action including upgrading to patched versions of BIND that contain proper input validation and buffer management. Organizations should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of vulnerable DNS servers to untrusted networks. The implementation of input validation measures and address space layout randomization (ASLR) can provide additional protection layers. Security monitoring should include detection of anomalous DNS query patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. System administrators should also consider disabling unnecessary DNS services and implementing proper firewall rules to restrict access to DNS servers. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date DNS software and implementing comprehensive security practices for internet infrastructure components, as DNS servers often serve as primary targets for attackers seeking to compromise network infrastructure and establish persistent access.