CVE-2004-0229 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE
The framebuffer driver in Linux kernel 2.6.x does not properly use the fb_copy_cmap function, with unknown impact.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/30/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-0229 resides within the framebuffer driver component of the Linux kernel version 2.6.x series, representing a critical security flaw that affects system integrity and operational security. This issue manifests in the improper utilization of the fb_copy_cmap function, which serves as a crucial mechanism for copying color map data within framebuffer operations. The framebuffer subsystem acts as a fundamental interface for graphics display operations in Linux systems, managing the low-level hardware interactions required for graphical user interfaces and display output. The improper handling of color map copying operations creates a potential attack surface that could be exploited to compromise system stability and security.
The technical flaw stems from inadequate parameter validation and memory management within the fb_copy_cmap function implementation. When the framebuffer driver processes color map operations, it fails to properly validate input parameters or maintain proper memory boundaries during data copying processes. This deficiency allows for potential buffer overflow conditions or memory corruption scenarios that could be leveraged by malicious actors. The vulnerability specifically impacts the kernel's ability to safely handle color map data transfers between different framebuffer contexts, creating opportunities for unauthorized code execution or system instability. The unknown impact designation reflects the complexity of potential exploitation vectors and the difficulty in predicting all possible consequences of the improper function usage.
The operational impact of CVE-2004-0229 extends beyond simple system crashes or instability, potentially enabling privilege escalation attacks and denial of service conditions. Systems utilizing affected kernel versions may experience complete graphical interface failures, leading to operational disruptions in environments where graphical user interfaces are critical for system management. The vulnerability affects a broad range of Linux systems that rely on framebuffer drivers for display operations, including desktop environments, server configurations, and embedded systems. Attackers could exploit this weakness to gain elevated privileges within the kernel space, potentially leading to complete system compromise. Additionally, the vulnerability may affect system availability through denial of service conditions that prevent normal display operations from functioning correctly.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate kernel updates to patched versions that properly implement the fb_copy_cmap function with appropriate input validation and memory management. System administrators should prioritize updating their Linux installations to kernel versions that address this specific flaw, as the vulnerability represents a significant risk to system security. The implementation of additional security controls such as kernel module signing and runtime integrity checking can provide enhanced protection against exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit potential attack vectors targeting vulnerable systems. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and may relate to ATT&CK technique T1068, involving the exploitation of legitimate credentials and system privileges for unauthorized access. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify and remediate similar issues within the kernel subsystems, ensuring comprehensive protection against evolving threats in the cybersecurity landscape.