CVE-2005-1455 in FreeRADIUS
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the sql_escape_func function in the SQL module for FreeRADIUS 1.0.2 and earlier allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (crash).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/03/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-1455 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the SQL module of FreeRADIUS version 1.0.2 and earlier releases. This issue manifests in the sql_escape_func function which is responsible for handling SQL escape sequences during database operations. The buffer overflow occurs when the function processes input data without proper bounds checking, allowing maliciously crafted input to overwrite adjacent memory locations. Such vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous in authentication systems like FreeRADIUS which handle sensitive network access requests and database interactions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the sql_escape_func function where character arrays are manipulated without sufficient boundary checks. When remote attackers submit specially crafted SQL escape sequences, the function fails to properly validate the length of input data against allocated buffer space, resulting in memory corruption. This flaw directly maps to CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. The vulnerability creates an exploitable condition where the application's memory layout becomes compromised, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or complete service termination.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service as it represents a significant security risk for network infrastructure. FreeRADIUS serves as a critical component in network access control systems, typically deployed in enterprise environments for authenticating users and managing network access permissions. When exploited, this buffer overflow can cause the FreeRADIUS daemon to crash and restart, effectively disrupting network access services for legitimate users. The remote nature of the attack means that unauthorized parties can exploit this vulnerability from external networks without requiring local system access, making it particularly concerning for network security administrators. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1499.004 which covers network denial of service attacks that target services to make them unavailable to legitimate users.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-1455 involve immediate patching of affected FreeRADIUS installations to version 1.0.3 or later where the buffer overflow has been addressed through proper input validation and bounds checking. System administrators should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of FreeRADIUS services to untrusted networks. Additionally, monitoring and logging mechanisms should be enhanced to detect anomalous input patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The fix typically involves implementing proper buffer size validation and using safer string manipulation functions that prevent buffer overflows. Organizations should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems to monitor for patterns consistent with this type of vulnerability exploitation and establish incident response procedures for rapid remediation of affected systems.