CVE-2002-2120 in RTOS
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple buffer overflows in QNX RTOS 4.25 may allow attackers to execute arbitrary code via long filename arguments to (1) Watcom or (2) int10.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/09/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2002-2120 represents a critical security flaw affecting QNX Real-Time Operating System version 4.25, specifically targeting buffer overflow conditions in two distinct system components. This vulnerability resides in the operating system's handling of filename arguments within the Watcom and int10 subsystems, creating potential entry points for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly check the length of filename arguments before processing them within these specific kernel components.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability manifests through buffer overflow conditions that occur when the system processes excessively long filename arguments. In the Watcom component, the operating system fails to validate the length of input filenames before copying them into fixed-size buffers, while the int10 component exhibits similar behavior in its handling of filename parameters. These buffer overflows create opportunities for attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations with malicious code, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability operates at the kernel level, meaning successful exploitation could provide attackers with elevated privileges and unrestricted access to system resources.
From an operational impact perspective, systems running QNX RTOS 4.25 are particularly vulnerable to this class of attack, especially in environments where file operations are frequent or where user input is not properly sanitized. The consequences extend beyond simple code execution to include potential system crashes, data corruption, and unauthorized access to sensitive information. Attackers could leverage these vulnerabilities to gain persistent access to embedded systems, industrial control systems, or automotive applications that rely on QNX RTOS, making this a significant concern for critical infrastructure deployments. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal privileges and can be automated, making it particularly dangerous in environments where system integrity is paramount.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-2120 should focus on immediate system updates and patches provided by QNX, along with implementing input validation controls at multiple layers of the system architecture. Organizations should enforce strict filename length limitations and implement proper buffer management techniques to prevent overflow conditions. Network segmentation and access controls can help limit potential attack vectors, while regular security audits should verify that all system components properly validate input parameters. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and relates to ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter execution, as successful exploitation would enable attackers to execute arbitrary code through compromised system processes. System administrators should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious file operations that might indicate exploitation attempts.