CVE-2004-0430 in Mac OS X Server
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in AppleFileServer for Mac OS X 10.3.3 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a LoginExt packet for a Cleartext Password User Authentication Method (UAM) request with a PathName argument that includes an AFPName type string that is longer than the associated length field.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/19/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2004-0430 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow within AppleFileServer component of Mac OS X versions 10.3.3 and earlier. This flaw exists specifically within the handling of LoginExt packets used during Cleartext Password User Authentication Method (UAM) requests. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation when processing AFPName type strings within the PathName argument of these authentication packets. The attack vector is remote, meaning malicious actors can exploit this weakness without physical access to the target system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a classic buffer overflow scenario where an attacker crafts a malicious LoginExt packet containing an AFPName string that exceeds the predefined length field limit. When the AppleFileServer processes this malformed packet, the oversized string overflows the allocated stack buffer, potentially overwriting adjacent memory locations including return addresses and control data. This memory corruption creates opportunities for arbitrary code execution, as attackers can manipulate the program flow to redirect execution to malicious payload code injected into the overflowed buffer.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and aligns with CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is categorized under the broader weakness of insufficient input validation and memory safety issues. This vulnerability falls within the ATT&CK framework under the T1203 Exploitation for Execution technique, as it enables remote code execution capabilities. The affected AppleFileServer component operates as part of the Apple Filing Protocol (AFP) service, which provides file sharing capabilities across Mac networks, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in networked environments where file servers are accessible to unauthorized users.
The exploitation of this vulnerability requires knowledge of the AFP protocol structure and the specific memory layout of the AppleFileServer application. Attackers must carefully construct the malicious packet to ensure that the overflowed buffer contains executable code while maintaining proper control flow manipulation. This type of vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects the core file sharing service of Mac OS X systems, potentially allowing attackers to gain unauthorized access to shared resources and execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the file server process. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and memory management practices in network services, as inadequate bounds checking can lead to complete system compromise.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate installation of Apple's security patches and updates that address the buffer overflow in AppleFileServer. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit access to AFP services and disable unnecessary file sharing protocols. Additionally, monitoring network traffic for suspicious LoginExt packet patterns can help detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the necessity of regular security updates and proper input validation in network services, as outlined in security best practices and standards such as those recommended by the Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP) and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) cybersecurity frameworks.