CVE-2005-0076 in XView
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple buffer overflows in the XView library 3.2 may allow local users to execute arbitrary code via setuid applications that use the library.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/06/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-0076 represents a critical security flaw within the XView library version 3.2 which operates as a graphical user interface toolkit for unix systems. This library serves as a foundational component for numerous applications that require graphical interfaces, making its security implications particularly severe. The XView library was widely used in enterprise environments and operating systems including various unix variants and linux distributions, creating a broad attack surface for potential exploitation.
The technical flaw manifests as multiple buffer overflows occurring within the XView library functions that handle user input and graphical data processing. These buffer overflows occur when applications that utilize the library process untrusted input data without proper bounds checking, allowing attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. The vulnerability specifically affects setuid applications that incorporate the XView library, which creates a particularly dangerous scenario since these applications typically run with elevated privileges. The buffer overflow conditions can be triggered through malformed input parameters or crafted graphical data that the library processes during normal operation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant and potentially devastating for affected systems. Local users who can execute applications linked against the vulnerable XView library can leverage these buffer overflows to gain arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the targeted application. When setuid applications are involved, this escalation can potentially lead to full system compromise, as these applications often run with root privileges or other elevated permissions. The exploitation process typically involves carefully crafted input that overflows buffers and redirects program execution flow to malicious code, potentially allowing attackers to install backdoors, modify system files, or establish persistent access to compromised systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-0076 focus on immediate remediation through software updates and patches provided by vendors. System administrators should prioritize updating to patched versions of the XView library, which typically include proper bounds checking and input validation mechanisms. Additionally, the principle of least privilege should be enforced by reviewing and removing unnecessary setuid permissions from applications that use the XView library. Security monitoring should include detection of anomalous behavior in graphical applications, particularly those with elevated privileges. From a compliance perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121 which addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and represents a classic example of how library vulnerabilities can propagate through entire application ecosystems. The ATT&CK framework would categorize this under privilege escalation techniques, specifically leveraging weaknesses in system libraries to gain elevated system access. Organizations should also implement application whitelisting policies to restrict execution of untrusted graphical applications and maintain comprehensive system inventory to identify all applications using the vulnerable library components.