CVE-2009-3002 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE
The Linux kernel before 2.6.31-rc7 does not initialize certain data structures within getname functions, which allows local users to read the contents of some kernel memory locations by calling getsockname on (1) an AF_APPLETALK socket, related to the atalk_getname function in net/appletalk/ddp.c; (2) an AF_IRDA socket, related to the irda_getname function in net/irda/af_irda.c; (3) an AF_ECONET socket, related to the econet_getname function in net/econet/af_econet.c; (4) an AF_NETROM socket, related to the nr_getname function in net/netrom/af_netrom.c; (5) an AF_ROSE socket, related to the rose_getname function in net/rose/af_rose.c; or (6) a raw CAN socket, related to the raw_getname function in net/can/raw.c.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/09/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2009-3002 represents a critical information disclosure flaw within the Linux kernel's socket subsystem that affects versions prior to 2.6.31-rc7. This issue stems from insufficient initialization of data structures within specific getname functions, creating a pathway for local attackers to access sensitive kernel memory contents. The vulnerability manifests across multiple socket families including AppleTalk, IrDA, Econet, NetROM, ROSE, and raw CAN protocols, each exhibiting the same fundamental flaw in their respective getname implementations. The root cause lies in the failure to properly initialize memory structures before these functions return data to userspace, enabling information leakage through seemingly benign socket operations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when local users invoke the getsockname system call on specific socket types that utilize the affected functions. In each case, the getname functions fail to initialize critical data structures that are subsequently returned to userspace, creating a scenario where uninitialized kernel memory contents are inadvertently exposed. This memory disclosure can reveal sensitive information including kernel addresses, internal data structures, and potentially confidential system information that could aid in further exploitation attempts. The flaw specifically affects the atalk_getname, irda_getname, econet_getname, nr_getname, rose_getname, and raw_getname functions across their respective protocol implementations, making it a widespread issue within the kernel's networking stack.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with valuable insights into kernel memory layout and internal state. This information leakage can significantly aid in developing more sophisticated attacks, including potential kernel exploitation techniques that rely on knowing memory addresses and internal structures. The vulnerability affects local users who already have system access, making it particularly concerning in multi-user environments where privilege escalation could be facilitated through this information disclosure. The exposure of kernel memory contents creates opportunities for attackers to bypass security mechanisms and potentially escalate privileges, as knowledge of kernel internals often reveals weaknesses in memory management and security controls.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily focus on kernel version updates to 2.6.31-rc7 or later, where the initialization issues have been addressed through proper memory structure initialization in the affected getname functions. System administrators should implement immediate patching procedures to ensure all affected systems are updated with the corrected kernel versions. Additionally, monitoring for suspicious socket operations and implementing strict access controls can help reduce the attack surface. Organizations should also consider implementing kernel hardening techniques such as stack canaries, kernel address space layout randomization, and other security mechanisms that can complicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-125: Out-of-bounds Read and ATT&CK technique T1059.001: Command and Scripting Interpreter, as it enables information gathering that can facilitate further attacks. System administrators must prioritize this vulnerability due to its potential for privilege escalation and the availability of straightforward patches that address the root cause through proper memory initialization practices.