CVE-2006-2409 in raydium
Summary
by MITRE
Format string vulnerability in the raydium_log function in console.c in Raydium before SVN revision 310 allows local users to execute arbitrary code via format string specifiers in the format parameter, which are not properly handled in a call to raydium_console_line_add.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/26/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-2409 represents a critical format string vulnerability within the Raydium game engine's console functionality. This issue exists in the raydium_log function located in console.c, specifically affecting versions prior to SVN revision 310. The flaw stems from improper handling of format string specifiers in the format parameter, creating a dangerous condition where malicious input can be interpreted as executable code rather than mere text. The vulnerability manifests when the raydium_console_line_add function processes user-provided format strings without adequate sanitization or validation.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-134, which specifically addresses format string vulnerabilities where format specifiers are derived from untrusted input sources. This weakness enables attackers to manipulate the program's execution flow by injecting format specifiers that can read from or write to memory locations. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it operates at the local user level, meaning any user with access to the affected Raydium application can potentially exploit this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code on the system. The vulnerability leverages the printf family of functions, which are commonly used for formatted output but become dangerous when input parameters are not properly validated.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to systems running affected versions of Raydium, particularly in environments where local user access is possible or where the application might be used in multi-user scenarios. The impact extends beyond simple code execution to potentially allow privilege escalation, data theft, or system compromise depending on the execution context and user privileges. Attackers can utilize this vulnerability to overwrite memory locations, inject malicious code into running processes, or even bypass security mechanisms that rely on proper string handling. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal privileges and can be automated, making it particularly dangerous in environments where Raydium is used as a gaming engine or development framework.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate code-level fixes including proper input validation and sanitization of format parameters before they are passed to printf-like functions. The recommended approach involves using fixed format strings instead of user-controlled format specifiers, implementing proper bounds checking, and ensuring that any user input is treated as literal text rather than executable code. Organizations should prioritize updating to SVN revision 310 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address this vulnerability. Additionally, implementing proper code review processes that specifically identify and prevent format string vulnerabilities can help prevent similar issues in other applications. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual console input patterns that might indicate attempted exploitation of this vulnerability, and system administrators should consider implementing least privilege principles to limit the potential impact of successful attacks. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of following secure coding practices as outlined in the OWASP Secure Coding Guidelines and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, emphasizing the need for robust input validation in application development processes.