CVE-2002-0587 in Server
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow 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 cause a denial of service or 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-2002-0587 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the AOLServer software ecosystem, specifically affecting versions 3.0 through 3.4.2. This vulnerability exists 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 proxy daemon processes Error or Notice parameters, creating a scenario where uncontrolled input data can overwrite adjacent memory locations beyond the allocated buffer boundaries.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which categorizes buffer overflow conditions where insufficient boundary checking allows attackers to write beyond the allocated memory space. The flaw occurs in the external database driver proxy daemon library, indicating that this is not merely a core server vulnerability but rather a specialized component that handles database communication between the web server and backend databases. The Ns_PdLog function specifically manages logging operations for database proxy activities, making it a prime target for exploitation since logging functions often receive untrusted input data from various sources.
Operationally, this vulnerability presents significant risks to system integrity and availability. Remote attackers can exploit this buffer overflow to either cause a denial of service by crashing the proxy daemon process, thereby disrupting database connectivity for legitimate users, or more critically, execute arbitrary code on the affected system. The remote exploitation capability means that attackers do not need physical access or local privileges to leverage this vulnerability, making it particularly dangerous in networked environments where the AOLServer may be exposed to untrusted clients. When successful, the code execution could potentially provide attackers with full control over the affected system, allowing them to install malware, modify data, or establish persistent access points.
The impact extends beyond immediate system compromise to encompass broader security implications for organizations relying on AOLServer for web applications and database connectivity. Given that the vulnerability affects a proxy daemon library, any applications using AOLServer's database proxy functionality could be at risk, potentially affecting multiple web applications running on the same server platform. The exploitation could lead to data breaches, service disruption, and unauthorized access to sensitive database information. Organizations should consider implementing immediate mitigations including updating to patched versions of AOLServer, applying network segmentation to limit exposure of vulnerable components, and implementing proper input validation measures to prevent exploitation attempts.
Mitigation strategies should include deploying the latest security patches provided by the vendor, implementing network monitoring to detect exploitation attempts, and applying the principle of least privilege to limit the impact of potential compromise. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices in database proxy components and highlights the need for comprehensive input validation and boundary checking mechanisms in all server-side components handling external data inputs. Security teams should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems capable of identifying patterns consistent with buffer overflow exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability class.