CVE-2005-2234 in AIX
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the getlvname command in IBM AIX 5.1, 5.2 and 5.3, might allow local users to execute arbitrary code via long command line arguments.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/14/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2005-2234 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the getlvname command of IBM AIX operating systems version 5.1, 5.2, and 5.3. This issue stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly handle excessively long command line arguments, creating a pathway for malicious exploitation. The getlvname command is typically used for retrieving logical volume names within the AIX storage management framework, making it a potentially valuable target for attackers seeking to escalate privileges or execute unauthorized code within the system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the getlvname command processes command line arguments without sufficient bounds checking or size validation. When an attacker provides command line arguments exceeding the allocated buffer space, the excess data overflows into adjacent memory regions, potentially corrupting program execution flow or allowing arbitrary code injection. This type of vulnerability maps directly to CWE-121, which specifically addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write vulnerabilities. The flaw exists in the command's argument parsing logic where it fails to validate the length of input parameters before copying them into fixed-size buffers, creating a predictable exploitation vector.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to systems running affected IBM AIX versions, as it allows local users to potentially execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the process running the getlvname command. The local execution requirement means that an attacker must already have access to the system, but this represents a privilege escalation vector that could be leveraged to gain higher system privileges or access to sensitive data. The impact extends beyond simple code execution, as successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise, data theft, or service disruption. Attackers could use this vulnerability to establish persistent access, escalate privileges, or deploy additional malicious payloads within the compromised AIX environment.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching and system hardening measures. IBM released security patches for AIX 5.1, 5.2, and 5.3 that address the buffer overflow in the getlvname command, and system administrators should prioritize applying these updates. Additionally, implementing proper input validation controls and restricting unnecessary command line argument processing can help reduce the attack surface. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers 'Exploitation for Privilege Escalation', and T1059, covering 'Command and Scripting Interpreter', making it relevant to defensive strategies focused on command execution monitoring and privilege escalation detection. System administrators should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies and monitoring for unusual command line argument patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, particularly in environments where AIX systems are deployed and managed.