CVE-2013-0288 in nss-pam-ldapd
Summary
by MITRE
nss-pam-ldapd before 0.7.18 and 0.8.x before 0.8.11 allows context-dependent attackers to cause a denial of service (application crash) and possibly execute arbitrary code by performing a name lookup on an application with a large number of open file descriptors, which triggers a stack-based buffer overflow related to incorrect use of the FD_SET macro.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/28/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-0288 affects nss-pam-ldapd versions prior to 0.7.18 and 0.8.x versions prior to 0.8.11, representing a critical security flaw in the Name Service Switch and Pluggable Authentication Modules LDAP daemon implementation. This vulnerability stems from improper handling of file descriptor management during LDAP name resolution operations, creating a scenario where malicious actors can exploit the application's resource management to trigger system instability.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the incorrect usage of the FD_SET macro within the application's socket handling code. When the nss-pam-ldapd daemon performs name lookups, it processes a large number of open file descriptors in a manner that leads to a stack-based buffer overflow condition. This occurs because the application fails to properly validate the number of file descriptors being processed against the maximum allowed by the FD_SET macro, which typically has a fixed limit of 1024 file descriptors on most Unix-like systems. The flaw manifests when the application attempts to set bits in the fd_set structure beyond its allocated capacity, causing memory corruption that can result in application crash or potentially arbitrary code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service, as it creates a potential vector for remote code execution when exploited. Attackers can leverage this flaw by establishing a large number of open connections or file descriptors, then initiating LDAP name resolution operations that trigger the buffer overflow condition. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited without authentication, making it a significant threat to systems that rely on nss-pam-ldapd for user authentication and name resolution services. Systems running affected versions may experience complete service disruption, with the application crashing and requiring manual restart to restore normal operations.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which specifically addresses buffer overflows occurring in stack memory regions, and demonstrates characteristics consistent with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter. The flaw also relates to CWE-770 Allocation of Resources Without Limits or Throttling, as the application fails to properly limit or validate the number of file descriptors being processed. Organizations using nss-pam-ldapd should immediately implement the vendor-provided patches for versions 0.7.18 and 0.8.11 respectively, while also monitoring for unusual connection patterns or resource consumption that might indicate exploitation attempts. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of affected systems to untrusted networks, and regular security assessments should verify proper patch application across all infrastructure components relying on LDAP authentication services.