CVE-2003-1067 in Solaris
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple buffer overflows in the (1) dbm_open function, as used in ndbm and dbm, and the (2) dbminit function in Solaris 2.6 through 9 allow local users to gain root privileges via long arguments to Xsun or other programs that use these functions.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/07/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2003-1067 represents a critical security flaw affecting Solaris operating systems versions 2.6 through 9, specifically targeting the database management functions dbm_open and dbminit. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation within these fundamental database library functions, creating exploitable buffer overflow conditions that can be leveraged by local attackers to escalate privileges to root level access. The affected functions are integral components of the ndbm and dbm database management systems that form part of the standard Solaris distribution, making this vulnerability particularly concerning given the widespread use of these systems in enterprise environments.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves buffer overflows occurring in the dbm_open function and dbminit function when processing excessively long arguments passed to programs utilizing these libraries. When Xsun or other applications invoke these functions with arguments exceeding allocated buffer sizes, memory corruption occurs that can be exploited to overwrite critical memory segments including return addresses and privilege control structures. This buffer overflow condition creates an opportunity for attackers to inject malicious code or manipulate program execution flow, ultimately enabling privilege escalation to the root user account. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 as a stack-based buffer overflow, representing a fundamental flaw in memory management where insufficient bounds checking allows arbitrary data to overwrite adjacent memory locations.
The operational impact of CVE-2003-1067 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as local attackers with minimal system access can leverage this vulnerability to achieve complete system compromise. The exploitation requires only local user access and does not necessitate network connectivity or special privileges, making it particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where unauthorized individuals might gain access to system resources. Once exploited, attackers can gain root privileges to perform unauthorized system modifications, access sensitive data, install backdoors, or establish persistent access to the compromised system. This vulnerability directly maps to attack techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under privilege escalation tactics, specifically targeting local privilege escalation methods that exploit software vulnerabilities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2003-1067 should focus on immediate system patching and configuration hardening measures. Oracle released security patches for Solaris 2.6 through 9 that address the buffer overflow conditions in the affected database functions, requiring system administrators to apply these updates promptly. Additionally, implementing system hardening practices such as restricting access to programs that utilize these vulnerable functions, monitoring for suspicious argument patterns, and employing privilege separation techniques can reduce the attack surface. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and memory management in system libraries, aligning with security best practices outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines. Organizations should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts and maintain comprehensive system logging to track potential privilege escalation activities.