CVE-2010-3187 in AIX
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in ftpd in IBM AIX 5.3 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long NLST command.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/21/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2010-3187 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the ftpd service of IBM AIX operating systems version 5.3 and earlier. This issue specifically manifests when processing the NLST command, which is used by ftp clients to list directory contents in a network-friendly format. The buffer overflow occurs due to insufficient input validation and bounds checking within the ftpd daemon's handling of the NLST command parameter, creating a scenario where maliciously crafted input can overwrite adjacent memory locations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper memory management practices within the ftpd service code. When a remote attacker sends a specially crafted NLST command containing an excessive number of characters, the service fails to properly validate the input length against the allocated buffer size. This allows the attacker to overflow the buffer and potentially overwrite critical memory segments including return addresses, function pointers, or other control data structures. The vulnerability is classified as a classic stack-based buffer overflow according to CWE-121, which directly enables arbitrary code execution capabilities.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe risk to systems running affected IBM AIX versions as it allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the ftpd service process. Since ftpd typically runs with elevated privileges to manage file operations, successful exploitation could result in complete system compromise. The attack vector requires only network connectivity to the FTP service, making it particularly dangerous in environments where FTP services are exposed to untrusted networks. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploitation of remote services and T1059 for command execution through compromised services.
The impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution as it can facilitate further lateral movement within networks where FTP services are prevalent. Attackers can leverage this entry point to establish persistent access, escalate privileges, or deploy additional malicious tools. Organizations running IBM AIX 5.3 or earlier versions face significant risk since these systems are no longer supported with security updates, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and memory management practices in network services, as highlighted by CWE-787 which addresses out-of-bounds write conditions. Mitigation strategies should include immediate patching of affected systems, disabling unnecessary FTP services, implementing network segmentation, and deploying intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious NLST command patterns. The vulnerability also underscores the critical need for regular security assessments and vulnerability management programs to identify and remediate similar issues in legacy systems.