CVE-2002-0745 in AIX
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in uucp in AIX 4.3.3.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/14/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-0745 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the unix-to-unix copy program uucp that operates on AIX 4.3.3 systems. This issue stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the uucp implementation, specifically when processing command line arguments or configuration parameters. The buffer overflow occurs when user-supplied data exceeds the allocated memory space for processing, creating opportunities for malicious code execution and system compromise. Such vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous in networked environments where uucp serves as a communication protocol between unix systems, making it a prime target for exploitation by adversaries seeking unauthorized access to enterprise networks.
The technical exploitation of this buffer overflow vulnerability follows established patterns documented in CWE-121, which classifies buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. In the context of AIX 4.3.3, the uucp implementation fails to properly validate the length of input parameters passed to its internal functions, allowing attackers to craft malicious inputs that exceed the designated buffer boundaries. This flaw directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1190, which describes the exploitation of buffer overflow vulnerabilities to execute arbitrary code on target systems. The vulnerability exists at the application layer where uucp processes network communications, making it susceptible to remote exploitation when the program is configured to accept external inputs.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple system compromise to encompass complete network infiltration capabilities. When successfully exploited, the buffer overflow allows attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the uucp process, which typically runs with elevated permissions to facilitate system communications. This creates a persistent backdoor within the network infrastructure, enabling attackers to establish long-term access to the compromised system and potentially use it as a launch point for further attacks against other network segments. The vulnerability affects systems where uucp is actively used for remote system administration or file transfers, particularly in enterprise environments where legacy unix systems remain operational.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-0745 should prioritize immediate patching of the AIX 4.3.3 systems with the appropriate vendor security updates. Organizations must also implement network segmentation to limit uucp access to authorized systems only, while disabling unnecessary uucp services on systems where they are not required. Additional defensive measures include implementing input validation controls, monitoring for suspicious uucp activity, and conducting regular vulnerability assessments to identify similar buffer overflow conditions in other system components. The remediation process should follow industry standards such as those outlined in the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, specifically focusing on the protection and detection capabilities that address the root cause of the buffer overflow through proper bounds checking and memory management practices.