CVE-2002-0586 in Server
Summary
by MITRE
Format string vulnerability in Ns_PdLog function for the external database driver proxy daemon library (libnspd.a) of AOLServer 3.0 through 3.4.2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via the Error or Notice parameters.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/26/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-0586 represents a critical format string flaw within the AOLServer software ecosystem, specifically affecting versions 3.0 through 3.4.2. This vulnerability resides within the Ns_PdLog function of the external database driver proxy daemon library known as libnspd.a, which serves as a crucial component in the server's database interaction capabilities. The flaw manifests when the server processes Error or Notice parameters, creating an opportunity for remote attackers to exploit the system through carefully crafted input sequences.
The technical nature of this vulnerability falls under the category of format string vulnerabilities, which are classified as CWE-134 within the Common Weakness Enumeration system. These vulnerabilities occur when a program uses user-supplied data as format string arguments without proper validation or sanitization, allowing attackers to manipulate the format string parsing mechanism. In the context of AOLServer, the Ns_PdLog function fails to properly handle input from the Error and Notice parameters, creating a pathway for attackers to inject malicious format specifiers that can lead to arbitrary code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a direct route to compromise the entire server infrastructure. When remote attackers manipulate the Error or Notice parameters, they can leverage the format string vulnerability to overwrite memory locations, redirect program execution flow, and ultimately gain unauthorized access to the system. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited without requiring authentication, making it an attractive target for automated attacks and widespread exploitation across vulnerable installations. The attack surface is broad since these parameters are typically exposed through database interaction points and error reporting mechanisms that are frequently accessed by external systems.
From a threat modeling perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script injection, where attackers can execute arbitrary code through manipulated input parameters. The exploitability of this vulnerability is enhanced by the fact that it operates at the library level, meaning that any application or service utilizing the affected AOLServer components could be compromised. Organizations should consider implementing immediate mitigations including input validation and sanitization measures, as well as upgrading to patched versions of AOLServer where available. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper parameter handling in database proxy libraries and underscores the need for comprehensive security testing of third-party components that form part of critical infrastructure. System administrators should also implement network segmentation and monitoring solutions to detect potential exploitation attempts and limit the lateral movement capabilities of attackers who might successfully exploit this vulnerability.