CVE-2008-2438 in OpenView Network Node Manager
Summary
by MITRE
Integer overflow in ovalarmsrv.exe in HP OpenView Network Node Manager (OV NNM) 7.01, 7.51, and 7.53 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted command to TCP port 2954, which triggers a heap-based buffer overflow.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/29/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-2438 represents a critical security flaw in HP OpenView Network Node Manager versions 7.01, 7.51, and 7.53 where the ovalarmsrv.exe service fails to properly validate input parameters. This integer overflow condition occurs when processing network commands sent to TCP port 2954, which serves as the primary communication channel for the network monitoring service. The flaw stems from inadequate bounds checking in the memory allocation routines, specifically within the heap-based buffer management system that handles incoming network requests from remote attackers. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-190 as an integer overflow, which directly maps to the ATT&CK technique T1203 for Exploitation for Client Execution, as it enables remote code execution through network-based attacks. The affected service operates with elevated privileges, making the potential impact significantly more severe than typical buffer overflow vulnerabilities.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the exploitation of an integer overflow condition that occurs during the processing of network commands. When a maliciously crafted command is sent to the TCP port 2954, the ovalarmsrv.exe process attempts to allocate memory for processing the command payload. The integer overflow causes the memory allocation function to receive a value that exceeds the maximum representable integer, leading to a situation where the system allocates insufficient memory for the buffer. This insufficient allocation creates a heap-based buffer overflow condition where subsequent data written to the allocated memory space overflows into adjacent memory regions. The overflow allows attackers to overwrite critical memory structures including return addresses, function pointers, or other control data, effectively enabling arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the network level and requires no authentication, making it a prime target for automated exploitation campaigns.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential network-wide disruption. Since HP OpenView Network Node Manager is typically deployed in enterprise environments as a critical network monitoring solution, exploitation of this vulnerability could provide attackers with unauthorized access to network infrastructure monitoring capabilities. The remote execution capability means that attackers can potentially gain persistent access to network monitoring systems, which often contain sensitive network topology information, device credentials, and monitoring data. This access could enable further reconnaissance activities, lateral movement within the network, and potential data exfiltration. The vulnerability's presence in multiple versions of the software increases the attack surface, affecting organizations that may not have updated to the latest patches. The heap-based nature of the buffer overflow also introduces potential stability issues that could cause service disruption or denial of service conditions, complicating incident response efforts.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-2438 should prioritize immediate patch deployment from HP, which would address the integer overflow condition in the ovalarmsrv.exe service. Organizations should implement network segmentation and access control measures to restrict access to TCP port 2954, limiting exposure to unauthorized networks. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by running the service with minimal required permissions and ensuring that the service account has only necessary network access. Network-based intrusion detection systems should be configured to monitor for unusual traffic patterns on port 2954, particularly when originating from untrusted sources. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing network access control lists that restrict which systems can communicate with the affected service, and regular security assessments should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in other network monitoring tools. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and memory management practices, aligning with industry standards such as those recommended by the CERT/CC and NIST for secure software development lifecycle practices.