CVE-2001-0194 in CUPS
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in httpGets function in CUPS 1.1.5 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via a long input line.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/25/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2001-0194 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the Common Unix Printing System CUPS version 1.1.5. This issue specifically affects the httpGets function which is responsible for handling HTTP GET requests in the printing system's web interface. The flaw occurs when the system processes input lines that exceed the allocated buffer space, creating a condition where maliciously crafted input can overwrite adjacent memory regions. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of stack-based buffer overflow, where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to manipulate program execution flow through memory corruption.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the httpGets function that processes HTTP request data. When a remote attacker submits a specially crafted HTTP GET request containing an excessively long input line, the function fails to properly check the length of incoming data against the predetermined buffer size. This oversight creates a scenario where additional data beyond the allocated memory space can overwrite critical program variables, return addresses, or other executable code segments. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it occurs during the processing of network requests, making it exploitable over the network without requiring local access to the system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as it provides remote attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. Successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise, allowing attackers to install malware, steal sensitive data, or establish persistent backdoors. The attack surface is significant since CUPS serves as a core printing service component on Unix-based systems, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to gain unauthorized access to networked environments. This vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1068 for Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, as the remote execution capability can be leveraged to escalate privileges or maintain persistence.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2001-0194 should prioritize immediate patching of affected CUPS installations to version 1.1.6 or later, which contains the necessary buffer overflow protections. System administrators should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of printing services to untrusted networks, while also deploying intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious HTTP GET requests. Additional protective measures include configuring input validation rules at network boundaries, implementing application firewalls, and conducting regular security assessments of printing infrastructure. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and bounds checking in network services, aligning with security best practices outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST Cybersecurity Framework. Organizations should also establish robust patch management processes to ensure timely remediation of similar vulnerabilities in other system components.