CVE-2002-2179 in Clearpath MCP
Summary
by MITRE
The dynamic initialization feature of the ClearPath MCP environment allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (crash) via a TCP port scan using a tool such as nmap.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/11/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2002-2179 represents a significant security flaw within the ClearPath MCP environment's dynamic initialization feature. This system, designed for mainframe computing environments, exhibits a critical weakness that can be exploited by remote attackers through seemingly benign network scanning activities. The vulnerability specifically manifests when the system encounters TCP port scans conducted using tools like nmap, which are commonly employed for network reconnaissance and security auditing purposes. The flaw demonstrates how legitimate network diagnostic activities can be weaponized to disrupt system operations, highlighting the importance of understanding how network scanning tools can inadvertently trigger system instability in certain environments.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from the dynamic initialization mechanism within ClearPath MCP that processes incoming network connections and service requests. When a TCP port scan is initiated against a system running this environment, the dynamic initialization feature fails to properly handle the rapid succession of connection attempts or connection state changes that characterize port scanning activities. This improper handling leads to system resource exhaustion or internal state corruption within the dynamic initialization module, ultimately resulting in system crashes or complete service disruption. The vulnerability operates at the network protocol level, specifically targeting how the system processes TCP connection states and initialization sequences during active network scanning operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple system downtime, as it represents a potential vector for broader service disruption within critical infrastructure environments. Organizations relying on ClearPath MCP systems for mission-critical operations face significant risk from this flaw, particularly in environments where network security monitoring and penetration testing activities are conducted regularly. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal technical skill and can be accomplished using widely available network scanning tools, making it accessible to both malicious actors and security researchers conducting authorized penetration testing. This accessibility combined with the potential for complete system crashes creates a substantial risk for organizations that may not have adequate monitoring or protection mechanisms in place to detect or prevent such attacks.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with several key concepts in the CWE (Common Weakness Enumeration) catalog, specifically relating to weaknesses in input validation and resource management within network services. The flaw demonstrates poor error handling and state management in network protocol processing, which are commonly categorized under CWE-248, "Uncaught Exception," and CWE-707, "Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation." Additionally, the vulnerability's exploitation through network scanning activities connects to ATT&CK techniques such as T1046, "Network Service Scanning,' and T1499, "Endpoint Denial of Service,' where adversaries leverage legitimate network reconnaissance activities to identify and exploit system weaknesses. Organizations should implement network segmentation, intrusion detection systems, and proper input validation mechanisms to protect against similar vulnerabilities in their environments.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include implementing network access controls to limit exposure to unauthorized scanning activities, configuring firewalls to rate-limit or block suspicious connection patterns, and applying vendor-provided patches or updates when available. System administrators should also consider implementing monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous connection patterns indicative of port scanning activities and automatically trigger defensive responses. The vulnerability underscores the importance of thorough security testing of network services and proper handling of edge cases in protocol implementations, particularly in enterprise environments where systems may be exposed to various types of network reconnaissance activities. Regular security assessments and proper incident response procedures should be established to address potential exploitation attempts and minimize the impact of similar vulnerabilities in other system components.