CVE-2002-1231 in Openunix
Summary
by MITRE
SCO UnixWare 7.1.1 and Open UNIX 8.0.0 allows local users to cause a denial of service via an rcp call on /proc.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/19/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-1231 represents a significant denial of service weakness in SCO UnixWare 7.1.1 and Open UNIX 8.00 versions that stems from improper handling of remote copy protocol commands. This flaw specifically manifests when local users execute rcp calls targeting the /proc filesystem, creating a condition where system resources become unavailable or unresponsive. The /proc filesystem serves as a virtual filesystem that provides an interface to kernel data structures, making it a critical system component for process management and system monitoring. When rcp commands are directed toward these proc entries, the operating system fails to properly validate or handle the requests, leading to system instability and service interruption.
This vulnerability operates at the system call level and demonstrates a classic case of inadequate input validation and resource management within the remote copy implementation. The flaw is categorized under CWE-20 as "Improper Input Validation" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1499.004 for "Network Denial of Service" where adversaries exploit system weaknesses to disrupt network services. The technical implementation involves the rcp daemon or utility failing to properly sanitize file paths when processing requests directed at the /proc filesystem, allowing malicious or unintended inputs to trigger system-level resource exhaustion or kernel panic conditions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple service disruption, as it can potentially lead to complete system unresponsiveness and require manual intervention for recovery. Local users with minimal privileges can exploit this weakness to render the system unstable, making it particularly concerning for multi-user environments where system integrity is paramount. The vulnerability affects both SCO UnixWare 7.1.1 and Open UNIX 8.00, indicating a broader issue within the Unix operating system family's handling of remote copy operations. System administrators face the challenge of mitigating this risk without compromising legitimate remote copy functionality, as the flaw exists in core system utilities that are essential for network administration tasks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-1231 should focus on restricting access to the rcp utility and implementing proper input validation mechanisms. System administrators should consider disabling unnecessary rcp services or implementing strict access controls that prevent local users from executing rcp commands against /proc entries. The implementation of proper file system permissions and the use of system monitoring tools to detect anomalous rcp activity can provide early warning signs of exploitation attempts. Additionally, applying the vendor-provided security patches or upgrading to supported versions of the operating system represents the most effective long-term solution. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and access control lists to limit the potential impact of such vulnerabilities. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices in system utilities and the need for comprehensive input validation to prevent exploitation of fundamental system components.