CVE-2010-2799 in Socat
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the nestlex function in nestlex.c in Socat 1.5.0.0 through 1.7.1.2 and 2.0.0-b1 through 2.0.0-b3, when bidirectional data relay is enabled, allows context-dependent attackers to execute arbitrary code via long command-line arguments.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/19/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-2799 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow in the socat network utility that affects versions 1.5.0.0 through 1.7.1.2 and 2.0.0-b1 through 2.0.0-b3. This flaw exists within the nestlex function in the nestlex.c source file, which processes command-line arguments during bidirectional data relay operations. The vulnerability manifests when socat is configured to handle bidirectional data flow, creating a scenario where maliciously crafted command-line inputs can trigger memory corruption. The buffer overflow occurs because the nestlex function fails to properly validate the length of command-line arguments before copying them into fixed-size stack buffers, allowing attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations including return addresses and control data. This vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 as a stack-based buffer overflow, which directly enables arbitrary code execution when exploited successfully.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass complete system compromise when attackers can influence socat execution with crafted command-line arguments. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability can manipulate the program flow by overwriting the return address on the stack, potentially redirecting execution to malicious code injected through the buffer overflow. The context-dependent nature of this vulnerability means that exploitation requires specific conditions where socat is running with bidirectional data relay enabled, but once achieved, the attack can be executed with minimal user interaction. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as attackers can leverage socat's command-line processing capabilities to execute arbitrary code on target systems. The attack vector requires that the vulnerable socat instance be invoked with malicious command-line parameters, making it particularly dangerous in environments where socat is used with elevated privileges or in automated systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-2799 should prioritize immediate version updates to socat 2.0.0-b4 or later, which contain patches addressing the buffer overflow in the nestlex function. System administrators should implement strict input validation controls and avoid running socat with unnecessary privileges, particularly when processing untrusted command-line arguments. Network segmentation and access controls should limit exposure to socat instances that might be vulnerable, while monitoring systems should be configured to detect unusual socat usage patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of affected socat versions and implement proper patch management procedures. The fix implemented in patched versions addresses the core issue by introducing proper bounds checking and input validation in the nestlex function, preventing the overflow condition that previously allowed attackers to manipulate stack memory. Security teams should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict socat execution to trusted environments and ensure that command-line arguments are properly sanitized before being processed by the utility.