CVE-2001-0717 in Database Server
Summary
by MITRE
Format string vulnerability in ToolTalk database server rpc.ttdbserverd allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via format string specifiers that are passed to the syslog function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/04/2025
The CVE-2001-0717 vulnerability represents a critical format string flaw in the ToolTalk database server component known as rpc.ttdbserverd. This vulnerability specifically affects the handling of user-supplied input within the syslog function, creating a pathway for remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The ToolTalk database server is part of the SunOS operating system and is designed to provide database services for distributed computing environments. When rpc.ttdbserverd processes incoming requests, it fails to properly validate or sanitize format string arguments before passing them to the syslog function, which is a standard system logging mechanism used to record events and messages.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when remote attackers send specially crafted format string specifiers to the rpc.ttdbserverd service. These specifiers, when processed by the syslog function, can trigger unintended behavior that allows attackers to manipulate memory locations and execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the rpc.ttdbserverd process. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-134 category of "Use of Externally-Controlled Format String" which is classified as a serious weakness in software security. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited remotely without requiring authentication, making it accessible to any attacker who can reach the affected service port.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple command execution, as it can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive data. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain root privileges, install backdoors, modify system files, or extract confidential information from the affected system. The rpc.ttdbserverd service typically runs with elevated privileges to perform database operations, meaning that successful exploitation directly translates to system-level access. This vulnerability is particularly concerning in networked environments where the ToolTalk service may be exposed to untrusted networks, as it can be exploited by attackers from anywhere on the internet without requiring any prior access to the system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2001-0717 should focus on immediate patching of affected systems and network segmentation to prevent unauthorized access to the rpc.ttdbserverd service. Organizations should implement firewall rules to restrict access to the service port, typically port 10000 for ToolTalk services, and disable the service entirely if it is not required for business operations. System administrators should also monitor for suspicious logging activity and implement intrusion detection systems that can identify exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and the dangers of using user-supplied data directly in system functions. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for command and script interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation, highlighting the multi-faceted nature of the threat. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar format string vulnerabilities in other system components, as these types of flaws often indicate broader security weaknesses in software design practices.