CVE-2002-1792 in Fake Identd
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in Fake Identd 0.9 through 1.4 allows remote attackers execute arbitrary code as root via a long request that is that is split into multiple packets.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/07/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-1792 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw in Fake Identd versions 0.9 through 1.4 that exposes systems to remote code execution with root privileges. This vulnerability specifically targets the identd protocol implementation which is commonly used for identifying users connecting to internet services. The flaw manifests when the service receives a malformed ident request that exceeds the allocated buffer space, creating conditions where attackers can overwrite adjacent memory locations and potentially execute arbitrary code with the highest system privileges.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the identd service handling mechanism. When a maliciously crafted request is sent to the vulnerable service, it contains a request string that exceeds the predetermined buffer size allocated for processing ident queries. This buffer overflow occurs because the software does not properly check the length of incoming requests before copying them into fixed-size buffers. The overflow allows attackers to manipulate the program's execution flow by overwriting return addresses and control data structures in memory, effectively enabling them to inject and execute malicious code within the context of the running identd service.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass complete system compromise. Since the identd service typically runs with elevated privileges to properly identify connecting users, successful exploitation grants attackers root-level access to the affected system. This access enables comprehensive system control including the ability to install persistent backdoors, modify system files, steal sensitive data, and establish further footholds within network environments. The vulnerability's remote nature means attackers can exploit it without requiring local access, making it particularly dangerous for systems exposed to untrusted networks.
The attack vector for this vulnerability involves sending a specially crafted ident request that is split across multiple network packets to circumvent simple length checks. This approach allows attackers to maintain the total request length beyond buffer limits while avoiding detection by basic network monitoring tools. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and demonstrates characteristics consistent with attack techniques categorized under the MITRE ATT&CK framework's privilege escalation and execution tactics. Organizations should consider implementing network segmentation, disabling unnecessary identd services, and applying immediate patches to mitigate this vulnerability.
Security professionals should prioritize immediate remediation of affected systems through patch deployment or service disablement, as the vulnerability provides direct paths to system compromise. The flaw's persistence across multiple versions of Fake Identd indicates a fundamental design issue that requires comprehensive review of input handling mechanisms in similar network services. Regular security assessments should include identification of all running identd services and verification of their versions to prevent exploitation attempts. Additionally, network monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual identd traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts.