CVE-2004-0010 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the ncp_lookup function for ncpfs in Linux kernel 2.4.x allows local users to gain privileges.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/25/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-0010 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow within the ncp_lookup function of the ncpfs filesystem driver in Linux kernel versions 2.4.x. This flaw exists in the Network Computing Protocol filesystem implementation that enables communication with Novell NetWare servers. The vulnerability specifically manifests when processing certain network requests that involve name resolution operations, creating an exploitable condition where user-supplied data can overflow a fixed-size stack buffer. The ncp_lookup function handles the translation of network names into filesystem identifiers, making it a prime target for privilege escalation attacks. This issue affects systems running kernel versions prior to the patch release that addressed the buffer overflow condition. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 as a stack-based buffer overflow, which is a well-documented weakness in software development where data written to a stack buffer exceeds the buffer's allocated size, potentially corrupting adjacent memory locations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when local users can manipulate the input parameters passed to the ncp_lookup function through the ncpfs interface. The buffer overflow enables attackers to overwrite return addresses and potentially execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. This condition arises because the kernel does not properly validate the length of strings received from network requests before copying them into fixed-size stack buffers. The flaw allows for privilege escalation from a regular user account to root privileges, as the ncpfs subsystem operates with sufficient permissions to access critical system resources. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability by crafting malicious network requests that trigger the vulnerable code path, causing the overflow to overwrite the stack contents in a manner that redirects execution flow. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in environments where ncpfs is actively used for network file sharing with local users who might not be trusted, as it provides a direct path to system compromise.
The operational impact of CVE-2004-0010 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it fundamentally compromises system integrity and confidentiality. Systems utilizing ncpfs filesystems in kernel 2.4.x environments become vulnerable to complete compromise, with attackers able to execute arbitrary code with root privileges. This vulnerability affects the core kernel functionality and can be exploited by malicious users to install backdoors, modify system files, or extract sensitive data from the compromised systems. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it requires minimal privileges to exploit, making it attractive for both malicious insiders and external attackers who gain initial access through other means. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation in kernel space code, as the lack of bounds checking in the ncp_lookup function creates an exploitable condition that can be leveraged for system takeover. Organizations running affected kernel versions face significant risk of unauthorized access and potential data breaches.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability involve immediate kernel updates to versions that contain the patched ncpfs implementation. System administrators should prioritize patching affected systems and verify that all kernel components are updated to prevent exploitation. The recommended approach includes applying security patches from the Linux kernel maintainers and ensuring that all systems running kernel 2.4.x are upgraded to supported versions. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of systems that might be vulnerable to this attack. Monitoring for suspicious network activity related to ncpfs usage and implementing intrusion detection systems can help identify exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date kernel versions and proper input validation in kernel space code, as demonstrated by the ATT&CK framework's emphasis on privilege escalation techniques and kernel-level exploitation methods. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should include checks for outdated kernel components to prevent similar issues from remaining unpatched.