CVE-2005-3590 in C Library
Summary
by MITRE
The getgrouplist function in the GNU C library (glibc) before version 2.3.5, when invoked with a zero argument, writes to the passed pointer even if the specified array size is zero, leading to a buffer overflow and potentially allowing attackers to corrupt memory.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/28/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-3590 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the GNU C library implementation of the getgrouplist function. This function serves as a critical system interface for retrieving group membership information for a specified user, making it a fundamental component in Unix-like operating systems' authentication and authorization mechanisms. The flaw manifests when the function is called with a zero argument, specifically when the array size parameter is set to zero, creating a dangerous condition where memory corruption can occur through unintended pointer dereferencing.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper bounds checking within the getgrouplist implementation in glibc versions prior to 2.3.5. When the function receives a zero-sized array parameter, it fails to validate this condition properly and proceeds to write data to the memory location pointed to by the array parameter. This behavior directly violates fundamental security principles and creates a predictable memory corruption scenario that attackers can exploit to overwrite adjacent memory locations. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 as a stack-based buffer overflow, though it manifests more specifically as a heap-based corruption due to the pointer dereference nature of the flaw.
The operational impact of CVE-2005-3590 extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it provides attackers with a potential pathway for arbitrary code execution within the context of the affected process. Since getgrouplist is commonly invoked during user authentication and authorization processes, exploitation could allow attackers to escalate privileges or gain unauthorized access to system resources. The vulnerability particularly affects systems running older versions of glibc, making it a significant concern for enterprise environments and server deployments that have not been properly updated. This flaw aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which involves exploiting vulnerabilities in legitimate programs to gain system access.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected glibc installations to versions 2.3.5 and later, where the implementation correctly handles zero-sized array parameters. System administrators should also implement monitoring for abnormal process behavior and memory access patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation in system libraries and highlights how fundamental functions can become attack vectors when proper bounds checking is absent. Organizations should conduct comprehensive inventory audits to identify all systems running vulnerable glibc versions and establish automated patch management processes to prevent similar issues from occurring in the future.