CVE-2006-0178 in UNICOS
Summary
by MITRE
Format string vulnerability in /bin/ftp in UNICOS 9.0.2.2 allows local users to have an unknown impact via format string specifiers in the quote command. NOTE: because the program is not setuid and not normally called from remote programs, there may not be a typical attack vector for the issue that crosses privilege boundaries. Therefore this may not be a vulnerability.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/11/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-0178 represents a format string vulnerability within the /bin/ftp utility of UNICOS 9.0.2.2 operating system. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-134 category, which specifically addresses the use of format strings without proper validation, creating potential security risks when user-supplied data is directly processed through format string functions like printf or sprintf. The vulnerability manifests specifically in the quote command of the ftp utility, where format string specifiers can be manipulated by local users to potentially exploit the underlying system.
The technical flaw occurs when the ftp utility processes user input through the quote command without proper sanitization of format specifiers. This allows attackers to inject format string arguments that can cause the program to read from or write to arbitrary memory locations, potentially leading to information disclosure, application crashes, or in more severe cases, arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates within a system utility that handles network communications, though the specific impact depends on the execution context and memory layout.
While the vulnerability exists in a local context, the attack vector analysis reveals that the ftp program is not setuid and typically not invoked by remote programs, which significantly limits the typical attack surface. This characteristic places the vulnerability in a unique category where privilege escalation is not the primary concern, as the program operates with the privileges of the user who invokes it rather than elevated system privileges. However, the potential for information disclosure remains a serious concern, particularly in environments where sensitive system information might be exposed through memory read operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it could potentially allow attackers to gain insights into memory structures and system behavior. Even without traditional privilege escalation capabilities, the ability to read arbitrary memory locations could reveal sensitive data such as passwords, cryptographic keys, or system configuration details. The lack of setuid permissions means that exploitation is limited to the user's own privileges, but the potential for data leakage still presents a significant security risk.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-0178 should focus on input validation and proper format string handling within the ftp utility implementation. The most effective approach involves ensuring that user-supplied input to the quote command is properly sanitized before being processed through format string functions. This aligns with the principle of least privilege and defense in depth strategies recommended by cybersecurity frameworks. System administrators should also consider implementing access controls and monitoring for unusual ftp activity, while the vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of secure coding practices in system utilities. The issue demonstrates how even seemingly benign utilities can contain critical security flaws when proper input validation is not implemented, highlighting the need for comprehensive security testing and code review processes.