CVE-2006-2205 in NetBSD
Summary
by MITRE
The audio_write function in NetBSD 3.0 allows local users to cause a denial of service (kernel crash) by using the audiosetinfo ioctl to change the sample rate of an audio device.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/25/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-2205 represents a critical kernel-level flaw in the NetBSD operating system version 3.0 that specifically affects the audio subsystem. This issue manifests through the audio_write function which handles audio data processing and device management. The vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation and error handling within the kernel's audio driver implementation, creating a pathway for local attackers to deliberately trigger system instability through controlled manipulation of audio device parameters.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the audiosetinfo ioctl command which is designed to configure audio device settings including sample rate parameters. When a local user executes this ioctl command with malformed or extreme sample rate values, the audio_write function fails to properly validate these inputs before processing them within the kernel space. This lack of proper input sanitization creates a condition where the kernel's audio subsystem can be forced into an invalid state, ultimately leading to a kernel panic and system crash. The vulnerability specifically targets the kernel's handling of audio device configuration parameters, making it a classic example of improper input validation that can result in arbitrary code execution or system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service as it represents a potential pathway for more sophisticated attacks. Local users who can access audio device interfaces can leverage this flaw to crash the entire system, potentially causing data loss, service interruption, and requiring system administrator intervention for recovery. The vulnerability affects systems running NetBSD 3.0 where audio services are active and accessible to local users, creating a persistent risk for environments where multiple users share system resources or where privilege escalation opportunities exist.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with CWE-129, which addresses improper validation of input boundaries, and demonstrates the critical importance of kernel-level input validation. The flaw also relates to ATT&CK technique T1068, which involves exploiting legitimate credentials to gain access to system resources, as local users can leverage existing system access to trigger the vulnerability. Mitigation strategies should include immediate system updates to patched versions of NetBSD, implementation of proper access controls to audio devices, and monitoring for unusual audio device configuration changes. Additionally, system administrators should consider implementing kernel hardening measures and restricting local user access to audio interfaces where possible to reduce the attack surface and prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in the audio subsystem.