CVE-2002-1296 in Solaris
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in priocntl system call in Solaris does allows local users to execute arbitrary code via ".." sequences in the pc_clname field of a pcinfo_t structure, which cause priocntl to load a malicious kernel module.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/21/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2002-1296 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the Solaris operating system's priocntl system call implementation. This vulnerability specifically targets the pc_clname field of the pcinfo_t structure, which is used to manage process scheduling classes. The flaw allows local attackers with minimal privileges to manipulate kernel module loading behavior by exploiting improper validation of directory traversal sequences. When malicious ".." sequences are injected into the pc_clname field, the priocntl system call fails to properly sanitize input, enabling attackers to bypass normal kernel module loading restrictions. This directory traversal vulnerability operates at the kernel level, making it particularly dangerous as it can potentially escalate privileges and execute arbitrary code with kernel-level permissions. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the Solaris kernel's process control management subsystem, which should have enforced strict boundaries on path resolution for kernel module names.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability leverages the fundamental weakness in how the priocntl system call processes the pc_clname parameter during kernel module loading operations. When a user provides a malicious path containing ".." sequences, the kernel's path resolution algorithm fails to properly canonicalize the path, allowing the system to attempt loading a kernel module from an unintended location. This flaw directly relates to CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The vulnerability enables attackers to load arbitrary kernel modules by crafting specific path sequences that bypass normal kernel security controls, effectively allowing privilege escalation from user-level processes to kernel-level execution. The exploitation requires local access to the system but can result in complete system compromise due to the kernel-level privileges that are granted during successful exploitation.
The operational impact of CVE-2002-1296 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it fundamentally undermines the security model of Solaris systems by allowing local users to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges. This vulnerability creates a persistent backdoor mechanism that could be exploited by attackers with minimal system access to gain complete control over affected systems. The implications for enterprise environments are severe, as compromised systems could serve as launching points for broader attacks, lateral movement, and data exfiltration. Organizations running Solaris systems were particularly vulnerable because the flaw existed in core kernel functionality that was essential for system process management. The vulnerability also highlights weaknesses in kernel input validation and privilege separation mechanisms, potentially affecting other similar system calls that handle path-based parameters. From an attack perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which involves exploiting legitimate credentials and privileges, and T1059, which involves executing malicious code through system calls.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-1296 require immediate patching of affected Solaris systems with vendor-provided security updates that properly validate input parameters in the priocntl system call. System administrators should implement strict input validation controls and monitor for suspicious process scheduling class operations that might indicate exploitation attempts. The recommended approach involves applying the appropriate security patches from Sun Microsystems and ensuring that all systems are updated to versions that contain proper path sanitization routines. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing kernel module integrity checking mechanisms and monitoring for unauthorized kernel module loading activities. Access controls should be enforced to limit local user privileges where possible, and system logging should be configured to capture process scheduling class modifications. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices in kernel space, particularly around input validation and path resolution, and serves as a reminder of the critical need for thorough security testing of system call interfaces. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous kernel module loading behavior as an additional defense-in-depth measure.