CVE-2004-1071 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE
The binfmt_elf loader (binfmt_elf.c) in Linux kernel 2.4.x up to 2.4.27, and 2.6.x up to 2.6.8, does not properly handle a failed call to the mmap function, which causes an incorrect mapped image and may allow local users to execute arbitrary code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/05/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2004-1071 represents a critical flaw in the Linux kernel's ELF binary format loader mechanism that affects kernel versions 2.4.x through 2.4.27 and 2.6.x through 2.6.8. This issue resides within the binfmt_elf.c source file which is responsible for loading executable ELF (Executable and Linkable Format) files on Linux systems. The vulnerability specifically targets the handling of memory mapping operations during the loading process, creating a scenario where failed memory allocation attempts are not properly managed, leading to potential code execution privileges for local attackers.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability stems from improper error handling within the kernel's memory management subsystem when processing ELF binaries. When the mmap function fails during the loading process, the kernel does not correctly clean up or reset the memory mapping state, resulting in an inconsistent memory image that can be exploited. This flaw falls under the CWE-248 category of "Uncaught Exception" and represents a classic case of improper error handling in kernel space. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows local users to manipulate the memory mapping process in a way that can result in arbitrary code execution, effectively bypassing normal security boundaries that separate user space from kernel space.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it creates a potential attack vector that can be leveraged by malicious local users to gain elevated privileges on affected systems. When exploited, this vulnerability can enable attackers to execute arbitrary code with kernel-level privileges, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The attack requires local access to the system but does not need network connectivity, making it particularly concerning for environments where local access cannot be fully controlled. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which describes "Local Privilege Escalation" and specifically targets the kernel's memory management subsystem as outlined in the ATT&CK matrix for privilege escalation techniques.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-1071 primarily focus on immediate system updates and kernel patching to address the underlying memory management error handling issue. System administrators should prioritize upgrading to kernel versions that have been patched against this vulnerability, specifically kernel versions 2.4.28 and 2.6.9 or later, which contain the necessary fixes. Additionally, implementing proper system monitoring and access controls can help detect anomalous memory mapping activities that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper error handling in kernel space operations and serves as a reminder of the potential consequences when memory management functions fail to properly clean up resources, creating exploitable conditions that can be leveraged by local attackers to achieve privilege escalation.