CVE-2007-1677 in NetBSD
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple buffer overflows in the ISO network protocol support in the NetBSD kernel 2.0 through 4.0_BETA2, and NetBSD-current before 20070329, allow local users to execute arbitrary code via long parameters to certain functions, as demonstrated by a long sockaddr structure argument to the clnp_route function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/28/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-1677 represents a critical buffer overflow condition within the ISO network protocol implementation of the NetBSD kernel operating system. This flaw exists in kernel space code that handles ISO network protocol functions, specifically affecting versions 2.0 through 4.0_BETA2 of NetBSD and the development branch before March 29, 2007. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation when processing network protocol parameters, creating an opportunity for malicious code execution through improper buffer handling. The issue manifests when local users provide excessively long parameters to specific kernel functions, particularly targeting the clnp_route function which processes sockaddr structures.
The technical nature of this vulnerability falls under CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. The flaw occurs in the kernel's ISO network protocol stack implementation where the clnp_route function fails to properly validate the length of sockaddr structure arguments passed to it. When a malicious user supplies a sockaddr parameter that exceeds the allocated buffer size, the excess data overflows into adjacent memory regions, potentially corrupting kernel data structures or allowing arbitrary code execution. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates within kernel space, providing attackers with elevated privileges and direct access to system resources.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-1677 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it enables local users to gain complete control over affected systems. Since the vulnerability requires local access but allows for arbitrary code execution, it represents a significant security risk in multi-user environments where untrusted users might have shell access. The exploitability of this flaw is enhanced by the fact that it affects kernel-level protocol handling functions that are routinely invoked during network operations. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute malicious code with kernel privileges, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or persistence mechanisms. The vulnerability's presence in multiple NetBSD versions indicates a widespread issue that affected a significant portion of the operating system's user base during that time period.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-1677 focus on both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements. The primary solution involves applying the official security patches released by NetBSD developers, which include proper bounds checking and input validation for sockaddr structure parameters in the clnp_route function. System administrators should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit local user privileges where possible. From a defensive standpoint, monitoring for unusual network protocol activity and implementing kernel integrity protection mechanisms can help detect exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of rigorous input validation in kernel space code and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers local privilege escalation through kernel vulnerabilities. Organizations should also consider implementing the principle of least privilege and regularly updating system components to prevent similar issues from arising in other kernel subsystems.