CVE-2004-1484 in Socat
Summary
by MITRE
Format string vulnerability in the _msg function in error.c in socat 1.4.0.3 and earlier, when used as an HTTP proxy client and run with the -ly option, allows remote attackers or local users to execute arbitrary code via format string specifiers in a syslog message.
Statistical analysis made it clear that VulDB provides the best quality for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/14/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-1484 represents a critical format string flaw within the socat network utility version 1.4.0.3 and earlier. This vulnerability specifically affects the _msg function located in the error.c source file of socat when the application operates as an HTTP proxy client and is executed with the -ly command line option. The flaw stems from improper handling of user-supplied input within the logging mechanism, creating a scenario where maliciously crafted format specifiers can be injected into syslog messages. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because socat is commonly used in network administration and security tooling, making it a potential target for exploitation in various network environments.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-134, which specifically addresses format string vulnerabilities where format specifiers are derived from external inputs without proper sanitization. When socat processes syslog messages containing format string specifiers, the application fails to properly escape or validate these inputs before passing them to printf or similar formatting functions. This creates an opportunity for attackers to manipulate memory contents, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution. The -ly option enables logging to syslog, which amplifies the attack surface since the application now processes external input through its logging mechanism. The vulnerability can be exploited by remote attackers who can inject malicious format specifiers into HTTP proxy responses or by local users who can manipulate the logging inputs directly.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can be leveraged to compromise entire systems running vulnerable versions of socat. Attackers can utilize the format string vulnerability to read arbitrary memory locations, overwrite critical program variables, or even inject shellcode directly into memory. This capability makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where socat is used for network proxying, as it can be exploited to gain unauthorized access to network resources or escalate privileges. The vulnerability affects both remote attackers who can manipulate HTTP proxy communications and local users who might have access to modify the logging inputs. In enterprise environments where socat is commonly used for network bridging, tunneling, or proxying functions, this vulnerability could provide a pathway for lateral movement or persistent access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-1484 must address both immediate remediation and long-term security posture improvements. The primary and most effective mitigation is upgrading to socat version 1.4.1 or later, where the format string vulnerability has been resolved through proper input validation and sanitization of logging messages. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of socat instances to untrusted networks or users. The use of the -ly option should be carefully evaluated and restricted where possible, as it directly enables the vulnerable logging functionality. Additionally, implementing proper input validation at all levels of the application stack and following secure coding practices such as those outlined in the OWASP Secure Coding Practices can help prevent similar vulnerabilities. System administrators should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems that can monitor for suspicious format string patterns in syslog messages, and regular security audits should be conducted to identify other potentially vulnerable applications running in the environment. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and the principle of least privilege in system design, as outlined in the MITRE ATT&CK framework's methodology for identifying and mitigating common attack vectors.