CVE-2002-0239 in hanterm
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in hanterm 3.3.1 and earlier allows local users to execute arbitrary code via a long string in the (1) -fn, (2) -hfb, or (3) -hfn argument.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/23/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-0239 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw affecting hanterm version 3.3.1 and earlier implementations. This security weakness resides within the command-line argument processing mechanism of the hanterm application, specifically targeting three distinct parameters: -fn, -hfb, and -hfn. The flaw enables local attackers to exploit memory corruption vulnerabilities by supplying excessively long string arguments that exceed the allocated buffer space, thereby potentially allowing arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the targeted user.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a classic buffer overflow condition where insufficient input validation occurs during argument parsing. When hanterm processes command-line arguments, it fails to properly bounds-check the length of strings provided to the specified parameters, allowing attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. This memory corruption can lead to unpredictable application behavior, program crashes, or more seriously, complete system compromise through code execution. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates locally, meaning an attacker must already have access to the system to exploit it, but the privilege escalation potential remains significant.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents substantial risk to systems running affected hanterm versions, particularly in environments where local user access is not strictly controlled. The attack vector requires only that a local user can execute the hanterm application with modified command-line arguments, which is often achievable in multi-user environments or when users have shell access. The potential impact extends beyond simple denial of service to full system compromise, as successful exploitation could allow attackers to execute malicious code with elevated privileges. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and represents a common attack pattern documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under privilege escalation techniques.
Organizations should prioritize immediate remediation through patching or upgrading to hanterm versions that address this buffer overflow vulnerability. System administrators should also implement strict access controls and monitor for unusual command-line argument usage patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, defensive measures including input validation, address space layout randomization, and stack canaries should be considered as part of a comprehensive security posture to mitigate similar vulnerabilities. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of proper input validation and memory management in application development, particularly for legacy software systems that may not have received regular security updates.