CVE-2002-2411 in Bannerwheel
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in badmin.c in BannerWheel 1.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long rcmd command.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/26/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-2411 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the BannerWheel 1.0 web application framework. This issue specifically affects the badmin.c component which handles administrative functions and processes remote command execution requests. The vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation and bounds checking when processing the rcmd command parameter, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by remote attackers to gain unauthorized system access.
The technical implementation of this buffer overflow occurs when the application fails to properly validate the length of input data provided in the rcmd command parameter. When a maliciously crafted request containing an excessively long string is sent to the vulnerable system, the buffer allocated in memory for processing this command becomes overwritten with data beyond its designated boundaries. This memory corruption allows attackers to manipulate the program execution flow and potentially inject malicious code into the running process. The vulnerability is classified as a classic stack-based buffer overflow according to CWE-121, which specifically addresses the condition where insufficient bounds checking allows for memory corruption through buffer overflows.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass complete system compromise and potential lateral movement within network environments. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected service, typically resulting in full system control. The attack vector requires only a network connection to the vulnerable BannerWheel application, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access or prior authentication. This characteristic aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, which describes the exploitation of software vulnerabilities for privilege escalation and system compromise.
The exploitation of this vulnerability typically involves crafting a specially formatted HTTP request containing an overly long rcmd parameter that exceeds the allocated buffer size in the badmin.c module. Successful exploitation can result in remote code execution, allowing attackers to install backdoors, modify system files, or establish persistent access to the compromised system. The vulnerability affects organizations using BannerWheel 1.0 in production environments, particularly those with exposed web services or administrative interfaces that are accessible from external networks. Organizations should note that this vulnerability has been present since the initial release of BannerWheel 1.0 and represents a fundamental security flaw in the application's input handling mechanisms.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-2411 should prioritize immediate patching of the BannerWheel 1.0 application to address the buffer overflow condition in badmin.c. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit access to BannerWheel applications and deploy intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts. Input validation should be strengthened at multiple layers including application-level filtering and network-based security controls. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing application whitelisting controls and regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other web applications. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper bounds checking and input validation as outlined in security best practices from organizations such as the Open Web Application Security Project. Given the age of this vulnerability and the availability of patches, continued operation of unpatched BannerWheel systems represents an unacceptable risk level for most organizations.