CVE-2002-1570 in net-snmp
Summary
by MITRE
Heap-based buffer overflow in snmpnetstat for ucd-snmp 4.2.3 and earlier, and net-snmp, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via multiple getnextrequest PDU messages with conflicting ifindex variables, which cause snmpnetstat to write variable data past the end of an array.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/15/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2002-1570 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow affecting network management utilities within SNMP implementations. This flaw exists in ucd-snmp version 4.2.3 and earlier releases as well as net-snmp software packages, making it a widespread issue across multiple network monitoring tools. The vulnerability specifically targets the snmpnetstat utility which is commonly used to display network interface statistics and other SNMP-related information. The flaw occurs when the utility processes multiple getnextrequest PDU messages that contain conflicting ifindex variables, creating a condition where variable data can be written beyond the boundaries of allocated memory arrays.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the SNMP protocol handling mechanism. When snmpnetstat receives malformed PDU messages containing conflicting ifindex values, the software fails to properly bounds-check array accesses during processing. This leads to a classic heap corruption scenario where attacker-controlled data overflows into adjacent memory regions, potentially allowing for arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be triggered remotely without authentication requirements, making it an attractive target for network-based attacks. The flaw operates at the application layer and leverages the SNMP protocol's inherent structure to craft malicious payloads that exploit memory handling deficiencies.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple system compromise, as it can affect network monitoring infrastructure that relies on these utilities for operational visibility. Organizations using affected versions of ucd-snmp or net-snmp may experience unauthorized code execution, system crashes, or complete system compromise when legitimate SNMP traffic is manipulated to include malicious PDU messages. Network administrators who depend on snmpnetstat for routine monitoring tasks face potential exposure during normal network operations, as the vulnerability can be triggered by simply processing incoming SNMP responses. The attack vector requires only network access to the affected system, making it particularly concerning for systems exposed to untrusted networks or those with minimal network segmentation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-1570 should prioritize immediate software updates to versions that contain the necessary patches addressing the buffer overflow condition. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit access to SNMP-enabled systems and consider deploying SNMPv3 with strong authentication mechanisms to reduce exposure. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121 heap-based buffer overflow category and represents a technique commonly used in the attack pattern catalog under ATT&CK matrix tactic TA0002 (Execution) and technique T1059.007 (Command and Scripting Interpreter). Security teams should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems that can identify and block malformed SNMP traffic patterns associated with this specific vulnerability, while maintaining comprehensive monitoring of affected systems for signs of exploitation attempts.