CVE-2004-1469 in SnipSnap
Summary
by MITRE
Format string vulnerability in the log function in SUS 2.0.2, and other versions before 2.0.6, allows local users to execute arbitrary code via format string specifiers in a command line argument that is passed directly to syslog.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/30/2021
The vulnerability described in CVE-2004-1469 represents a critical format string vulnerability within the syslog logging functionality of SUS 2.0.2 and earlier versions. This flaw exists in the way the system processes command line arguments when invoking the log function, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by local attackers to execute arbitrary code on the affected system. The vulnerability specifically impacts the SUS (System Update Service) software suite, which was commonly used for managing system updates and configurations in enterprise environments during that timeframe.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and handling within the logging subsystem. When a command line argument containing format specifiers is passed directly to the syslog function without proper sanitization or formatting, the system interprets these specifiers as instructions for variable expansion rather than literal text. This behavior allows attackers to craft malicious input that can manipulate the program's execution flow, potentially leading to stack smashing, memory corruption, or arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability falls under CWE-134 which specifically addresses the use of format strings without proper validation, making it a well-documented and dangerous class of vulnerability.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to system integrity and security. Local users who can execute commands on the affected system can exploit this weakness to gain elevated privileges or execute malicious code with the privileges of the running process. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires only local access, making it difficult to detect and defend against in environments where local privilege escalation is not properly restricted. The impact extends beyond immediate code execution to potentially compromise the entire system, as successful exploitation can lead to persistent backdoors or complete system takeover. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers local privilege escalation and T1059 which covers command and scripting interpreters.
The remediation strategy for this vulnerability involves upgrading to SUS version 2.0.6 or later, where the format string vulnerability has been addressed through proper input validation and sanitization of command line arguments before they are passed to syslog functions. Organizations should also implement proper input validation mechanisms, avoid direct use of user-supplied input in printf-style functions, and employ stack canaries or other memory protection techniques. Additionally, system administrators should review and restrict local user privileges, implement proper access controls, and monitor for suspicious command line usage patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a prime example of why proper input validation and secure coding practices are essential in system software development, particularly in security-critical components like logging functions that handle untrusted input from potentially compromised local accounts.