CVE-2011-2776 in super
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the Error function in super.c in Super 3.30.0 might allow local users to execute arbitrary code via vectors related to syslog logging. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/28/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-2776 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the Super 3.30.0 software package, specifically within the Error function implementation in the super.c source file. This type of vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-121, which encompasses buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. The flaw manifests during syslog logging operations, indicating that the vulnerability is triggered when the application attempts to log error messages through the system logging mechanism.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and memory management within the Error function. When the super application processes error conditions that require logging, it fails to properly validate the length of error messages before copying them into fixed-size buffers. This oversight creates a scenario where maliciously crafted error messages or conditions can exceed the allocated buffer space, leading to memory corruption that can be exploited to execute arbitrary code. The local privilege escalation aspect of this vulnerability means that an attacker with access to the system can leverage this flaw without requiring remote network access, making it particularly dangerous in environments where local accounts exist.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-2776 extends beyond simple code execution, as it can provide attackers with unauthorized access to system resources and potentially full system compromise. The vulnerability's reliance on syslog logging operations suggests that it could be triggered through various application error conditions, making exploitation more likely in production environments where applications generate numerous error messages. Attackers could craft specific error scenarios that would cause the buffer overflow to occur, potentially leading to privilege escalation from standard user accounts to root privileges. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers the exploitation of local privilege escalation vulnerabilities, and T1070, which addresses the use of system logs for attack execution.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate software patching and updating to versions that address the buffer overflow condition in the Error function. System administrators should implement proper input validation controls and ensure that all error handling routines within the Super application properly validate buffer sizes before memory operations occur. Additionally, monitoring for unusual syslog activity and implementing proper access controls to limit local user privileges can help reduce the attack surface. The remediation process should include comprehensive testing to ensure that patched versions maintain application functionality while eliminating the buffer overflow vulnerability. Organizations should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems that can monitor for exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability class, as the pattern of memory corruption associated with such buffer overflows is well-documented in cybersecurity threat intelligence feeds.