CVE-2002-1614 in HP-UX
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in HP Tru64 UNIX allows local users to execute arbitrary code via a long argument to /usr/bin/at.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/18/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-1614 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within HP Tru64 UNIX operating system that specifically affects the /usr/bin/at command. This command serves as a job scheduling utility that allows users to execute commands at specified times, making it a commonly used system tool for automated task execution. The buffer overflow occurs when the at command processes command line arguments that exceed the allocated buffer space, creating a potential pathway for malicious code execution. This issue is particularly concerning because it affects a system utility that is typically accessible to local users, meaning that an attacker with minimal privileges could potentially exploit this vulnerability to gain elevated system access.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient space is allocated for data that is copied into a buffer. The flaw manifests when the at command fails to properly validate the length of input arguments before copying them into a fixed-size buffer, allowing an attacker to overwrite adjacent memory locations. This memory corruption can potentially overwrite return addresses, function pointers, or other critical program state information, enabling arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the at command process. The vulnerability is classified as a local privilege escalation vector since it requires only local system access to exploit, making it particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where users may not have elevated privileges.
The operational impact of CVE-2002-1614 extends beyond simple code execution, as it can enable attackers to establish persistent access to compromised systems. When exploited successfully, this vulnerability allows local users to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the at command, which typically runs with elevated permissions to manage scheduled jobs. Attackers could leverage this to install backdoors, modify system files, or escalate privileges to root access. The attack surface is significant because the at command is widely used and accessible to normal users, making the exploitation relatively straightforward. This vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which covers command and scripting interpreter for execution, as the at command itself serves as a mechanism for executing shell commands. The implications for system security are severe, particularly in enterprise environments where multiple users interact with the system and where automated job scheduling is common.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching of affected HP Tru64 UNIX systems through official vendor updates. System administrators should also implement monitoring for suspicious usage patterns of the at command, particularly when unusual argument lengths are detected. Access controls should be reviewed to limit unnecessary execution of the at command, and privilege separation should be enforced to minimize potential impact from successful exploitation. Additional defensive measures include implementing address space layout randomization and stack canaries to make exploitation more difficult, while also maintaining regular system audits to detect unauthorized modifications to system utilities. Organizations should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems that can identify potential buffer overflow exploitation attempts and ensure that system logging captures all instances of at command usage for forensic analysis purposes.