CVE-2009-1355 in AIX
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in muxatmd in IBM AIX 5.2, 5.3, and 6.1 allows local users to gain privileges via a long filename.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/01/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-1355 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within the muxatmd component of IBM AIX operating systems versions 5.2, 5.3, and 6.1. This issue resides in the kernel-level network device driver responsible for handling ATM (Asynchronous Transfer Mode) multiplexing operations, making it particularly dangerous as it operates at the core of system networking functionality. The vulnerability specifically manifests when the system processes filenames that exceed predetermined buffer limits, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by local attackers with existing system access.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a classic stack buffer overflow mechanism where a maliciously crafted filename exceeding the allocated buffer space causes data to overwrite adjacent memory locations on the stack. This overflow can potentially overwrite return addresses, function pointers, or other critical control data structures, allowing an attacker to redirect program execution flow. The muxatmd component processes ATM network connections and handles various file operations during network device management, making it a prime target for privilege escalation attacks. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and bounds checking within the filename processing code path, where the system fails to properly verify the length of incoming filename parameters before copying them into fixed-size stack buffers.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a significant risk to system integrity and security posture as it enables local users to escalate privileges from their current access level to root privileges. The attack vector requires only local system access, making it particularly concerning as it does not require network connectivity or specialized attack infrastructure. Once exploited, the attacker can gain complete control over the system, potentially leading to data theft, system compromise, or use as a foothold for further attacks within a network environment. The impact extends beyond immediate privilege escalation as compromised systems can serve as launching points for lateral movement and persistent access within enterprise networks.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which specifically addresses buffer overflows occurring in stack memory regions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. This classification indicates the fundamental nature of the flaw as a classic buffer management error that has been well-documented in cybersecurity literature for decades. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to privilege escalation techniques under the T1068 category, where adversaries leverage system weaknesses to gain higher-level permissions. The technique also intersects with T1059 command and scripting interpreter categories, as successful exploitation typically involves executing malicious code through system processes. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management procedures to address this vulnerability, as IBM released security updates specifically targeting this flaw in their AIX operating system versions. Additionally, system administrators should consider implementing additional security controls such as mandatory access controls, privilege separation, and network segmentation to reduce the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts.