CVE-2003-1236 in Tanne
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple format string vulnerabilities in the logger function in netzio.c for Tanne 0.6.17 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via format string specifiers in syslog.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/08/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2003-1236 represents a critical format string vulnerability within the Tanne 0.6.17 network logging component. This flaw exists in the netzio.c file where the logger function processes system log messages without proper input validation. The vulnerability specifically affects the handling of format string specifiers that are passed through syslog mechanisms, creating a pathway for remote attackers to exploit the software's logging functionality.
Format string vulnerabilities occur when a program uses user-supplied data as format strings in functions like printf, sprintf, or syslog without proper sanitization. In this case, the logger function in Tanne 0.6.17 fails to properly escape or validate format specifiers that originate from remote syslog messages. When maliciously crafted input containing format specifiers such as %x, %s, or %n is processed by the vulnerable logger, it can lead to arbitrary code execution. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a code injection technique under the T1059.008 sub-technique, specifically targeting command and scripting interpreters.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability involves crafting malicious syslog messages that contain format specifiers designed to manipulate the program's memory layout. Attackers can leverage the %n format specifier to write data to arbitrary memory locations, potentially overwriting function pointers or return addresses. This allows for the execution of arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected process, typically running with elevated permissions. The CWE classification for this vulnerability falls under CWE-134, which specifically addresses the use of format strings inappropriately, making it a well-documented and dangerous class of vulnerability.
The operational impact of CVE-2003-1236 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with persistent access to network infrastructure. Since the vulnerability affects a logging function that is typically enabled and accessible, attackers can exploit this without requiring special privileges or complex attack vectors. The vulnerability affects network services that rely on Tanne 0.6.17 for logging operations, potentially compromising entire network monitoring systems. Organizations using this software face significant risk as the vulnerability can be exploited remotely without authentication, making it particularly dangerous in networked environments where syslog services are commonly exposed.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of the Tanne 0.6.17 software to address the format string handling in the logger function. System administrators should ensure that all network logging components are updated to versions that properly sanitize user input before processing format strings. The implementation of input validation and sanitization measures within the logging subsystem prevents malicious format specifiers from being processed. Additionally, network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of syslog services to untrusted networks. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar issues in other network infrastructure components, as format string vulnerabilities remain prevalent in legacy software systems and can be exploited in similar ways across different applications.