CVE-2004-1235 in S8300
Summary
by MITRE
Race condition in the (1) load_elf_library and (2) binfmt_aout function calls for uselib in Linux kernel 2.4 through 2.429-rc2 and 2.6 through 2.6.10 allows local users to execute arbitrary code by manipulating the VMA descriptor.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/09/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2004-1235 represents a critical race condition affecting the Linux kernel's binary format handling mechanisms. This flaw exists within the kernel's process loading subsystem where multiple functions interact during program execution initialization. The vulnerability specifically impacts the load_elf_library and binfmt_aout function calls that are responsible for loading executable binaries into memory. These functions operate within the broader context of the kernel's binary format support system, which is designed to handle various executable formats including ELF and a.out binaries. The race condition manifests when multiple threads or processes attempt to manipulate virtual memory areas simultaneously during the loading process.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits a fundamental timing issue in the kernel's memory management operations. When the uselib system call is invoked, it attempts to load shared libraries into the process address space. However, the race condition occurs between the time when the kernel checks for valid memory mappings and when it actually performs the mapping operations. The VMA (Virtual Memory Area) descriptor structure, which tracks memory regions and their properties, becomes inconsistent during this window. This inconsistency allows malicious local users to manipulate the memory layout by creating race conditions that can result in arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at kernel level where privilege escalation is not required, and the race window is typically very small but sufficient for exploitation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to include complete system compromise. Local attackers can leverage this race condition to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges, effectively bypassing all user-space security controls. The exploitation process typically involves creating multiple threads that race to manipulate the VMA descriptors while the kernel is in the process of loading libraries. This type of vulnerability is classified under CWE-362, which specifically addresses race conditions in concurrent programming environments. The attack vector requires local access to the system but provides a path to kernel-level compromise that can lead to complete system takeover. The vulnerability affects a broad range of kernel versions including the 2.4.x series up to 2.4.29-rc2 and the 2.6.x series up to 2.6.10, indicating it was present in multiple kernel branches for an extended period.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-1235 focus on kernel updates and code-level protections. The primary and most effective solution involves upgrading to kernel versions that contain patches addressing the race condition in the binary format handling functions. The fix typically implements proper locking mechanisms around the VMA descriptor manipulation operations to prevent concurrent access during critical sections. System administrators should also consider implementing additional security measures such as disabling unnecessary binary formats, restricting the use of uselib system calls, and monitoring for suspicious process behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to privilege escalation techniques and kernel-level attack vectors that can be used to establish persistent access to compromised systems. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper synchronization mechanisms in kernel code and highlights the need for comprehensive testing of concurrent operations in operating system components. Organizations should also implement regular kernel updates and vulnerability scanning to prevent exploitation of similar race condition vulnerabilities that may exist in their systems.