CVE-2008-2145 in Novell
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in Novell Client 4.91 SP4 and earlier allows local users to cause a denial of service (crash) and possibly execute arbitrary code via a long username in the "forgotten password" dialog.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/31/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2008-2145 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within Novell Client version 4.91 Service Pack 4 and earlier installations. This vulnerability specifically targets the authentication mechanism of the client software, creating a dangerous condition that can be exploited by local attackers to compromise system integrity and availability. The flaw manifests within the "forgotten password" dialog functionality, which serves as an entry point for malicious input manipulation that bypasses normal input validation procedures. The vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking during username processing, allowing attackers to overflow the allocated stack buffer with excessive input data.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a well-established pattern that aligns with CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, where insufficient input validation permits attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations on the stack. When a local user provides an excessively long username through the forgotten password interface, the application fails to properly validate the input length before copying it into a fixed-size buffer. This failure creates a condition where the buffer overflow can overwrite return addresses, saved registers, and other critical stack data structures. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires only local user access, making it accessible through legitimate user accounts and eliminating the need for elevated privileges or network-based exploitation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service conditions to potentially enabling arbitrary code execution within the context of the affected application. While the primary effect manifests as system crashes and service interruptions, the buffer overflow condition creates opportunities for more sophisticated attacks that could leverage the overwritten stack memory to redirect program execution flow. Attackers could potentially inject malicious code into the overflowed buffer space, causing the application to execute unintended instructions with the privileges of the running process. This capability transforms a simple denial of service vulnerability into a potential escalation vector that could compromise entire systems or facilitate further attacks within network environments.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in relation to the broader ATT&CK framework, particularly under the techniques involving privilege escalation and execution through compromised applications. The vulnerability's local nature aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which addresses local privilege escalation opportunities. Organizations should implement comprehensive mitigation strategies including immediate patch deployment for Novell Client versions, input validation hardening, and application whitelisting policies to prevent exploitation. System administrators should also monitor for unusual authentication attempts and implement intrusion detection measures that can identify potential exploitation attempts through malformed username inputs. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of proper input validation and memory management in client-side applications, particularly those handling authentication data. Organizations should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments of their client software installations and ensure that all systems receive timely security updates to protect against similar buffer overflow conditions.