CVE-2003-0986 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE
Various routines for the ppc64 architecture on Linux kernel 2.6 prior to 2.6.2 and 2.4 prior to 2.4.24 do not use the copy_from_user function when copying data from userspace to kernelspace, which crosses security boundaries and allows local users to cause a denial of service.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/05/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2003-0986 represents a critical security flaw in the linux kernel's handling of data transfers between user space and kernel space on ppc64 architecture systems. This issue affects kernel versions prior to 2.6.2 and 2.4.24, creating a significant pathway for local attackers to exploit the system's security boundaries. The fundamental problem lies in the improper implementation of memory copy operations within the kernel's ppc64 architecture support code, where developers failed to utilize the essential copy_from_user function during data transfers from user space to kernel space.
The technical flaw manifests as a failure to properly validate and sanitize data movement across privilege levels, specifically within the ppc64 architecture implementation of the linux kernel. When kernel routines process data originating from user space, they should employ the copy_from_user function to ensure proper memory access controls and prevent potential security violations. Without this function, the kernel directly copies data without proper boundary checking, potentially allowing malicious user processes to manipulate kernel memory structures or trigger unexpected behavior. This vulnerability directly relates to CWE-121, which describes the weakness of stack-based buffer overflow, and CWE-125, which addresses out-of-bounds read conditions that can occur when data is copied without proper validation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service conditions, as it provides local attackers with the capability to potentially destabilize the entire system. While the primary effect is a denial of service, the improper data handling could theoretically enable more sophisticated attacks depending on the specific kernel routines affected. The vulnerability is particularly concerning for systems running older kernel versions where the ppc64 architecture is utilized, as these systems may be more prevalent in enterprise environments or specialized computing platforms. Attackers could exploit this weakness to repeatedly crash system processes or cause the kernel to become unresponsive, effectively rendering the affected system unusable.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2003-0986 primarily involve upgrading to kernel versions 2.6.2 or 2.4.24 and later, which contain the necessary patches to properly implement the copy_from_user function during data transfers. System administrators should prioritize patching affected systems, particularly those running ppc64 architecture implementations where this vulnerability is present. Additionally, monitoring for unusual system behavior or process crashes that could indicate exploitation attempts should be implemented. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper kernel memory management and the necessity of following established security practices when developing system-level code. Organizations should also consider implementing runtime protections such as kernel address space layout randomization and other security hardening measures to reduce the overall attack surface and potential impact of such vulnerabilities. This issue highlights the fundamental security principle that all data crossing privilege boundaries must be properly validated and sanitized, as outlined in various security frameworks including those referenced in the ATT&CK framework's system hardening practices.