CVE-2012-0219 in socat
Summary
by MITRE
Heap-based buffer overflow in the xioscan_readline function in xio-readline.c in socat 1.4.0.0 through 1.7.2.0 and 2.0.0-b1 through 2.0.0-b4 allows local users to execute arbitrary code via the READLINE address.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/05/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-0219 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow within the socat network utility that affects versions ranging from 1.4.0.0 through 1.7.2.0 and 2.0.0-b1 through 2.0.0-b4. This flaw exists in the xioscan_readline function located in the xio-readline.c source file, making it possible for local attackers to achieve arbitrary code execution on systems running vulnerable versions of socat. The vulnerability specifically manifests when socat processes input through the READLINE address type, which is commonly used for reading input from terminal devices or other input streams. The heap-based nature of this buffer overflow indicates that the vulnerability occurs in dynamically allocated memory regions rather than on the stack, making it particularly challenging to detect and exploit reliably.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking within the xioscan_readline function, which fails to properly validate the length of input data before copying it into heap-allocated buffers. When socat encounters input data through the READLINE address, the function does not enforce proper size limitations on the data being read, allowing an attacker to provide input that exceeds the allocated buffer space. This overflow can overwrite adjacent heap memory regions, potentially corrupting critical data structures or pointers that control program execution flow. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 as a heap-based buffer overflow, which directly relates to improper validation of input data length against allocated buffer sizes. The attack vector is local in nature, meaning that exploitation requires an attacker to already have access to the system with a valid user account, though this access level is often readily available in many environments where socat is deployed.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can be leveraged to gain elevated privileges and compromise the entire system. Since socat is frequently used in system administration tasks and can be invoked with elevated privileges through setuid binaries, successful exploitation could allow an attacker to escalate their privileges from a regular user to root level access. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where socat is used for network communication or terminal input handling. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and script interpreter, as the arbitrary code execution capability could be used to launch malicious commands or establish persistent access. Additionally, the vulnerability demonstrates characteristics of T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation, since the local code execution can be used to gain higher system privileges. The attack requires minimal prerequisites beyond local system access, making it a significant threat vector in environments where socat is widely deployed and frequently used in administrative contexts.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-0219 should focus on immediate version updates to socat 1.7.2.1 or later, which contain the necessary patches to address the heap-based buffer overflow. Organizations should also implement additional security controls such as restricting access to socat binaries, particularly those with setuid privileges, and monitoring for unusual execution patterns or privilege escalation attempts. Input validation should be enhanced at the application level to prevent malformed data from reaching vulnerable functions, and system administrators should conduct comprehensive audits of socat usage across their infrastructure to identify and remediate all affected installations. The vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining up-to-date system software and implementing proper input validation practices as recommended in the OWASP Top Ten security guidelines, particularly focusing on preventing buffer overflow conditions that can lead to arbitrary code execution.