CVE-2004-2013 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE
Integer overflow in the SCTP_SOCKOPT_DEBUG_NAME SCTP socket option in socket.c in the Linux kernel 2.4.25 and earlier allows local users to execute arbitrary code via an optlen value of -1, which causes kmalloc to allocate 0 bytes of memory.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/23/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2004-2013 represents a critical integer overflow flaw within the Linux kernel's implementation of the Stream Control Transmission Protocol socket options. This issue specifically affects the SCTP_SOCKOPT_DEBUG_NAME option in the socket.c file and impacts all Linux kernel versions up to and including 2.4.25. The vulnerability arises from improper validation of the optlen parameter when processing socket options, creating a scenario where a malicious local user can manipulate kernel memory allocation behavior through crafted socket option parameters. The flaw demonstrates a classic example of inadequate input sanitization that can lead to severe system compromise.
The technical mechanism behind this vulnerability involves the exploitation of an integer overflow condition that occurs when processing the optlen parameter in the SCTP socket option handling code. When a local user provides an optlen value of -1, the kernel's internal calculations result in an integer overflow that effectively converts the negative value into a very large positive integer. This miscalculation causes the kmalloc function to attempt allocating zero bytes of memory instead of the intended amount, leading to unpredictable memory behavior and potential kernel memory corruption. The vulnerability operates at the kernel level where the memory allocation functions do not properly validate the input parameters, creating a path for privilege escalation and arbitrary code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it allows local users to gain unauthorized access to kernel memory spaces and potentially execute arbitrary code with kernel-level privileges. This represents a significant security risk because local users who already have access to the system can leverage this flaw to elevate their privileges and gain root access to the entire system. The attack vector requires only local system access, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by any user with basic login credentials. The vulnerability also demonstrates poor memory management practices that can lead to system instability and potential denial of service conditions when exploited.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-2013 primarily focus on upgrading to patched kernel versions where the integer overflow has been properly addressed. System administrators should immediately apply security updates from their respective distribution vendors to ensure the vulnerability is resolved. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and bounds checking in kernel socket option handling code can prevent similar issues from occurring in future implementations. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-190 which identifies integer overflow conditions as a critical weakness in software security. From an attack perspective, this vulnerability maps to ATT&CK technique T1068 which involves exploiting legitimate credentials and privileges to gain system access. Organizations should also consider implementing kernel hardening measures such as stack canaries, address space layout randomization, and kernel module signing to reduce the effectiveness of potential exploitation attempts. The fix typically involves adding proper validation checks to ensure that optlen values remain within acceptable ranges before being passed to memory allocation functions, preventing the overflow condition that leads to the zero-byte allocation scenario.