CVE-2002-0598 in FScan
Summary
by MITRE
Format string vulnerability in Foundstone FScan 1.12 with banner grabbing enabled allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on the scanning system via format string specifiers in the server banner.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/21/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-0598 represents a critical format string flaw in Foundstone FScan version 1.12 that specifically manifests when the banner grabbing feature is enabled. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of CWE-134 which defines weaknesses related to format string vulnerabilities where program variables are used as format strings without proper validation or sanitization. The flaw occurs within the network scanning tool's handling of server responses during the banner grabbing process, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by remote attackers to gain unauthorized access to the scanning system.
The technical execution of this vulnerability involves an attacker crafting malicious server responses containing format string specifiers that are then processed by FScan's banner grabbing functionality. When the scanning tool attempts to display or log these responses, it interprets the format specifiers as instructions for memory access rather than literal text, potentially leading to stack-based buffer overflows or information disclosure. This behavior directly aligns with the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation, as the vulnerability can be exploited to execute arbitrary code on the target system. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it operates at the application layer where legitimate scanning operations occur, making it difficult to distinguish between normal network traffic and malicious payloads.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass potential system compromise and data exfiltration. Attackers can leverage the format string vulnerability to overwrite critical memory locations, potentially leading to denial of service conditions or complete system takeover. The vulnerability affects the integrity and availability of the scanning infrastructure, as compromised systems may be used for further reconnaissance or to launch attacks against other network assets. Organizations relying on FScan for network security assessments face significant risk, as the tool itself becomes a potential entry point for attackers targeting their network perimeters.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-0598 should prioritize immediate patching of the FScan application to address the format string vulnerability. System administrators should disable banner grabbing functionality when it is not required for scanning operations, as this reduces the attack surface for exploitation. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit the exposure of scanning systems to untrusted networks. Additionally, implementing intrusion detection systems that monitor for suspicious format string patterns in network traffic can help detect exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input validation and proper string handling in security tools, as highlighted by the CWE-134 weakness classification and the need for robust application security practices that prevent format string vulnerabilities from being introduced into security tools themselves.