CVE-2009-2296 in OpenSolaris
Summary
by MITRE
The NFSv4 server kernel module in Sun Solaris 10, and OpenSolaris before snv_119, does not properly implement the nfs_portmon setting, which allows remote attackers to access shares, and read, create, and modify arbitrary files, via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/06/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-2296 represents a critical security flaw in the Network File System version 4 implementation within Sun Solaris 10 and OpenSolaris systems prior to build snv_119. This issue stems from improper handling of the nfs_portmon setting within the NFSv4 server kernel module, creating a significant bypass of access controls that fundamentally compromises file system security. The flaw allows remote attackers to circumvent intended access restrictions and gain unauthorized access to shared resources, effectively undermining the security model that NFSv4 was designed to enforce.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the inadequate implementation of the nfs_portmon parameter which is intended to control port monitoring behavior for NFSv4 services. When properly configured, this setting should restrict NFSv4 server operations to specific network ports and prevent unauthorized access attempts. However, the flaw in the kernel module implementation means that the port monitoring mechanism fails to properly validate incoming requests, allowing attackers to exploit this weakness through unspecified attack vectors. This misconfiguration creates a pathway for unauthorized remote code execution and data manipulation capabilities that extend far beyond normal operational boundaries.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, affecting organizations that rely on Solaris-based systems for file sharing and networked storage services. Attackers exploiting this flaw can perform read, create, and modify operations on arbitrary files within accessible NFS shares, potentially leading to complete system compromise and data exfiltration. The vulnerability affects the fundamental security assurances that NFSv4 provides, making it possible for remote adversaries to gain persistent access to sensitive data without proper authentication. This represents a significant escalation from typical network-based attacks, as it allows attackers to operate at the file system level with elevated privileges and broad access capabilities.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including updating to patched versions of Solaris 10 and OpenSolaris, specifically those containing build snv_119 or later. System administrators should also consider implementing network-level restrictions to limit NFSv4 traffic to trusted networks only, while disabling unnecessary NFS services and ports. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-284 Access Control Issues, specifically addressing inadequate access control mechanisms within kernel modules, and represents a technique that could be categorized under ATT&CK tactic TA0008 Lateral Movement and TA0006 Credential Access. Additionally, this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper kernel module implementation and the potential for privilege escalation through flawed system-level security controls that directly impact network service availability and data integrity.