CVE-2003-1310 in Norton AntiVirus
Summary
by MITRE
The DeviceIoControl function in the Norton Device Driver (NAVAP.sys) in Symantec Norton AntiVirus 2002 allows local users to gain privileges by overwriting memory locations via certain control codes (aka "Device Driver Attack").
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/14/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2003-1310 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw within Symantec Norton AntiVirus 2002's device driver implementation. This issue stems from improper input validation within the DeviceIoControl function of the NAVAP.sys driver, which processes control codes from user-mode applications. The flaw allows local attackers with standard user privileges to execute arbitrary code with elevated system-level permissions, effectively bypassing the operating system's security model and undermining the fundamental principle of privilege separation.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through direct manipulation of the kernel-mode device driver interface. When the NAVAP.sys driver receives certain control codes via DeviceIoControl calls, it fails to properly validate input parameters before processing them, leading to potential memory corruption and arbitrary code execution. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of stack-based buffer overflow, though the specific implementation involves kernel-mode memory manipulation rather than traditional stack corruption. The attack vector leverages the inherent trust relationship between user-mode applications and kernel-mode drivers, where legitimate driver interfaces become attack surfaces for privilege escalation.
The operational impact of CVE-2003-1310 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it fundamentally compromises system integrity and confidentiality. Local users who exploit this vulnerability can execute code with kernel-level privileges, enabling them to bypass security controls, modify system files, install malicious software, and potentially establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability affects systems running Symantec Norton AntiVirus 2002, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where antivirus software is widely deployed. This type of attack aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers local privilege escalation through kernel exploits, and demonstrates how legitimate security software can become a target for attackers seeking to elevate their privileges.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected Symantec Norton AntiVirus 2002 installations, as the vendor released security updates to address the device driver flaw. System administrators should also implement additional security controls including kernel-mode driver signing requirements, restricted user privileges, and monitoring for suspicious DeviceIoControl activity. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation in kernel-mode code and demonstrates why device drivers must be rigorously tested for security vulnerabilities. Organizations should consider implementing privilege separation mechanisms and regularly auditing installed security software to prevent similar issues in other security products. The flaw serves as a reminder of the critical security implications when legitimate system components become attack vectors for privilege escalation attacks.