CVE-2009-1639 in Kernel Recovery
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in Nucleus Data Recovery Kernel Recovery for Novell 4.03 allows user-assisted attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted .NKNT file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/11/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-1639 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within the Nucleus Data Recovery Kernel Recovery for Novell 4.03 software component. This vulnerability exists in the handling of specially crafted .NKNT files, which are used for data recovery operations within Novell network environments. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and bounds checking mechanisms within the kernel recovery module, creating an exploitable condition that can be triggered through user-assisted attack vectors. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 as a stack-based buffer overflow, where an attacker can manipulate the stack layout to overwrite adjacent memory locations with malicious data.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the software processes a malformed .NKNT file that contains oversized data structures or malformed headers. During the parsing operation, the recovery kernel fails to properly validate the size of incoming data before copying it into fixed-size stack buffers. This allows an attacker to overflow the allocated stack space and potentially overwrite return addresses, function pointers, or other critical stack variables. The vulnerability requires user interaction to deliver the malicious file, making it a user-assisted remote code execution vulnerability that can be exploited through social engineering or direct file transfer mechanisms. Attackers can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the target system, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of CVE-2009-1639 extends beyond simple code execution, as it can provide attackers with persistent access to networked Novell environments. Systems running the affected Nucleus Data Recovery Kernel Recovery software become vulnerable to privilege escalation attacks, where attackers can gain elevated system privileges and potentially move laterally within the network. The vulnerability affects organizations that rely on Novell's network infrastructure and data recovery solutions, particularly those using legacy Novell 4.03 systems. The attack surface is limited to systems that process .NKNT files, which are typically used in data recovery scenarios, making the exploitation more targeted but still potentially devastating when successful. The vulnerability's impact aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script interpreter execution, as successful exploitation would allow attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the compromised system.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of the affected software components, as well as implementing network segmentation and file validation controls. Organizations should disable processing of .NKNT files from untrusted sources and implement strict file type validation mechanisms. The recommended approach includes updating to the latest version of Nucleus Data Recovery Kernel Recovery that addresses this buffer overflow condition, while also applying network-based controls to prevent unauthorized file transfers. Additionally, system administrators should monitor for suspicious file access patterns and implement intrusion detection systems that can identify potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and memory safety practices, aligning with security best practices outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks. Regular vulnerability assessments and security audits should be conducted to identify similar buffer overflow conditions in legacy systems, as these vulnerabilities often persist in older software components that are not regularly updated or maintained.