CVE-2002-1621 in AIX
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the file_comp function in rcp for IBM AIX 4.3.x and 5.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/03/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-1621 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the remote copy protocol implementation on IBM AIX systems. This issue specifically affects versions 4.3.x and 5.1 of the AIX operating system where the file_comp function in the rcp (remote copy) utility contains insufficient input validation mechanisms. The flaw arises when the rcp utility processes file names or path information that exceeds the allocated buffer space, creating an opportunity for malicious input to overwrite adjacent memory locations. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of Buffer Overflow, which is classified as a fundamental weakness in software design that allows attackers to corrupt memory and potentially execute arbitrary code. The rcp utility, which is part of the standard AIX distribution and used for copying files between systems, becomes a vector for exploitation when handling specially crafted input parameters that trigger the buffer overflow condition.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a pathway to compromise entire system environments through remote exploitation. When an attacker successfully exploits this buffer overflow, they can overwrite critical program execution flow control elements such as return addresses, function pointers, or stack canaries, potentially allowing them to inject and execute malicious code with the privileges of the rcp process. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it enables remote code execution without requiring authentication, making it a prime target for automated exploitation tools. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 which describes the use of remote code execution capabilities to gain unauthorized access to systems. The exploitation process typically involves crafting malicious input that causes the buffer overflow, followed by manipulation of the program execution flow to redirect control to attacker-controlled code, often through return-oriented programming or direct code injection techniques.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-1621 require immediate system hardening and patch management procedures. The most effective approach involves applying the official IBM security patches that address the buffer overflow in the rcp utility, which typically include enhanced input validation and proper buffer size management. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to restrict access to systems running rcp services, particularly on non-essential network segments where the utility is not required. Additionally, system administrators should disable the rcp service entirely if it is not mission-critical, as the utility has been largely superseded by more secure alternatives such as scp or sftp protocols. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous patterns in network traffic that may indicate exploitation attempts, particularly those involving unusual file name lengths or malformed path specifications. The implementation of address space layout randomization and stack canary protections can provide additional defense-in-depth measures, though these are secondary to the primary patching approach. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and the dangers of legacy protocols that have not been properly secured against modern exploitation techniques, aligning with the broader security principle that unpatched systems remain vulnerable to known exploitation methods.