CVE-2010-4227 in Netware
Summary
by MITRE
The xdrDecodeString function in XNFS.NLM in Novell Netware 6.5 before SP8 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (abend) or execute arbitrary code via a crafted, signed value in a NFS RPC request to port UDP 1234, leading to a stack-based buffer overflow.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/29/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-4227 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within the XNFS.NLM component of Novell Netware 6.5 systems prior to Service Pack 8. This vulnerability exists in the xdrDecodeString function which processes Network File System remote procedure calls on UDP port 1234. The flaw arises from inadequate input validation when handling signed values in NFS RPC requests, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit the system through carefully crafted network traffic. The vulnerability operates at the network protocol level and specifically targets the XNFS.NLM service which is responsible for handling NFS network file sharing operations in Novell Netware environments.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a stack-based buffer overflow attack that leverages the xdrDecodeString function's improper handling of signed integer values within NFS RPC messages. When a maliciously crafted request is sent to UDP port 1234, the function fails to properly validate the size parameter of the string being decoded, allowing an attacker to write beyond the allocated buffer boundaries. This overflow can overwrite adjacent memory locations including return addresses and control data, potentially enabling remote code execution or system abend conditions. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 as a stack-based buffer overflow, where insufficient bounds checking allows memory corruption that can be exploited for privilege escalation or denial of service.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-4227 extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios to encompass full system compromise capabilities. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected service, potentially gaining unauthorized access to network resources, data, or system control. The attack vector requires network access to UDP port 1234, making it particularly dangerous in environments where NFS services are exposed to untrusted networks. This vulnerability affects organizations running Novell Netware 6.5 systems without the SP8 patch, creating widespread exposure across enterprise networks that rely on legacy file sharing protocols. The exploitation can result in complete system compromise, data loss, or unauthorized access to sensitive network resources.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-4227 primarily focus on applying the official Novell Service Pack 8 patch which addresses the buffer overflow vulnerability in the xdrDecodeString function. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to restrict access to UDP port 1234, particularly for systems not requiring NFS services. Network access control lists can be configured to block external access to the affected port while maintaining internal connectivity for legitimate operations. Additionally, implementing network monitoring solutions can help detect anomalous NFS RPC traffic patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. Security teams should consider disabling NFS services entirely if they are not required for business operations, as this eliminates the attack surface entirely. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 for legitimate credentials and T1059 for command and scripting interpreter, as exploitation can lead to system command execution and privilege escalation within the compromised Netware environment.
The vulnerability demonstrates the persistent risks associated with legacy network protocols and the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches in enterprise environments. Organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all systems running affected Novell Netware versions and prioritize patch deployment. Regular security audits of network services and ports should be performed to identify and disable unnecessary NFS functionality. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of vulnerability management programs that include timely patch deployment and continuous monitoring of network services for known security flaws. The impact extends beyond immediate system compromise to include potential data exfiltration and network lateral movement opportunities that attackers can exploit once initial access is achieved.