CVE-2009-3519 in Solaris
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple memory leaks in the IP module in the kernel in Sun Solaris 8 through 10, and OpenSolaris before snv_109, allow local users to cause a denial of service (memory consumption) via vectors related to (1) M_DATA, (2) M_PROTO, (3) M_PCPROTO, and (4) M_SIG STREAMS messages.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/16/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2009-3519 represents a critical memory management flaw within the kernel-level IP module of Sun Solaris operating systems spanning versions 8 through 10, as well as OpenSolaris prior to build snv_109. This issue manifests as multiple memory leaks that occur during the processing of STREAMS messages, specifically affecting M_DATA, M_PROTO, M_PCPROTO, and M_SIG message types. The vulnerability operates at the kernel level, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by local users to consume system memory resources without proper bounds checking or resource cleanup mechanisms.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves improper memory allocation and deallocation patterns within the kernel's STREAMS subsystem when handling specific message types. When these particular STREAMS messages are processed, the kernel fails to properly release allocated memory resources, resulting in gradual memory consumption that can eventually lead to system instability or complete denial of service conditions. The flaw is particularly insidious because it operates silently in the background, with memory leaks accumulating over time until system resources are exhausted. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-401, which specifically addresses improper release of memory, and represents a classic example of memory management failure in kernel space.
The operational impact of CVE-2009-3519 extends beyond simple resource exhaustion, as it provides attackers with a reliable method for system disruption that requires minimal privileges. Local users can exploit this vulnerability without requiring network access or elevated permissions, making it particularly concerning for multi-user systems where malicious users might attempt to degrade system performance or availability. The memory consumption pattern is typically gradual but persistent, allowing attackers to monitor system resources and time their exploitation for maximum impact. From an adversarial perspective, this vulnerability fits within ATT&CK technique T1499.004, which involves network denial of service, and T1565.001, which covers data manipulation through memory corruption. The attack surface is broad as it affects the core networking stack of the operating system, potentially impacting all network-dependent services.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2009-3519 require both immediate patching and system hardening measures. The primary remediation involves applying the appropriate security patches released by Sun Microsystems for affected Solaris versions, which typically include proper memory deallocation routines and bounds checking for STREAMS message processing. System administrators should also implement monitoring solutions to detect unusual memory consumption patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, implementing resource limits and process monitoring can help contain the impact if exploitation occurs. Organizations should consider implementing the principle of least privilege to limit local user access and regularly review system memory usage patterns to identify potential abuse of this vulnerability. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper memory management in kernel code and highlights the need for comprehensive testing of resource handling mechanisms in operating system components.