CVE-2005-1589 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE
The pkt_ioctl function in the pktcdvd block device ioctl handler (pktcdvd.c) in Linux kernel 2.6.12-rc4 and earlier calls the wrong function before passing an ioctl to the block device, which crosses security boundaries by making kernel address space accessible from user space and allows local users to cause a denial of service and possibly execute arbitrary code, a similar vulnerability to CVE-2005-1264.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/18/2024
The pktcdvd driver in linux kernel versions up to and including 2.6.12-rc4 contains a critical vulnerability in its ioctl handler that fundamentally undermines system security through improper function invocation. This flaw exists within the pkt_ioctl function located in the pktcdvd.c file, which serves as the block device ioctl handler for packet cdrom devices. The vulnerability stems from a specific code path where the driver fails to properly validate or prepare ioctl requests before forwarding them to underlying block device operations, creating a dangerous precedent for privilege escalation and information disclosure.
The technical flaw manifests when the pkt_ioctl function incorrectly calls an inappropriate kernel function prior to passing the ioctl command to the block device layer. This misordered execution allows user-space processes to manipulate the ioctl flow in ways that bypass normal kernel security boundaries. The improper function call creates a scenario where kernel virtual memory addresses become accessible from user-space contexts, effectively enabling a form of information leak that can be exploited to gain insights into kernel memory layout and potentially extract sensitive data. This vulnerability operates at the intersection of kernel memory management and device driver interfaces, creating a pathway for unauthorized access to kernel address space that violates fundamental security principles of operating system isolation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, presenting local attackers with the capability to trigger denial of service conditions and potentially execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges. When exploited, the vulnerability allows attackers to manipulate kernel memory structures through carefully crafted ioctl requests, leading to system instability and potential complete compromise. The similarity to CVE-2005-1264 indicates this represents a broader class of issues affecting kernel block device drivers, where improper ioctl handling creates consistent security weaknesses across multiple components. The vulnerability's local nature means that any user with access to the system can potentially exploit it, making it particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where privilege separation is essential.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-119, which addresses weaknesses in memory access and improper handling of kernel memory regions, and demonstrates characteristics consistent with ATT&CK technique T1068, which involves exploiting local privileges to gain elevated access. The flaw represents a critical failure in kernel security architecture where proper input validation and function call ordering have been compromised, allowing for unauthorized memory access patterns. Mitigation strategies must include immediate kernel updates to versions that address this specific issue, along with implementing proper ioctl parameter validation and ensuring that all kernel device drivers follow secure coding practices for ioctl handling. System administrators should also consider implementing additional security controls such as capability-based access restrictions and monitoring for suspicious ioctl activity patterns that could indicate exploitation attempts.