CVE-2013-1993 in Mesa
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple integer overflows in X.org libGLX in Mesa 9.1.1 and earlier allow X servers to trigger allocation of insufficient memory and a buffer overflow via vectors related to the (1) XF86DRIOpenConnection and (2) XF86DRIGetClientDriverName functions.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/03/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-1993 represents a critical integer overflow issue within the X.org libGLX component of the Mesa graphics library version 9.1.1 and earlier. This flaw exists in the X server's handling of graphics driver connections and specifically affects the XF86DRIOpenConnection and XF86DRIGetClientDriverName functions. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and arithmetic overflow handling when processing graphics driver connection parameters, creating a condition where malicious X servers can manipulate memory allocation sizes to trigger buffer overflows.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves integer overflow conditions that occur during the calculation of memory allocation sizes for graphics driver communication buffers. When the X server processes driver connection requests through these specific functions, it fails to properly validate the size parameters provided by the client. This leads to situations where an attacker can cause the system to allocate insufficient memory for buffer operations, subsequently resulting in memory corruption and potential code execution. The flaw is classified under CWE-190 as an integer overflow, specifically involving signed integer overflow conditions that can be exploited to manipulate memory layout.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it enables a range of potential attacks including privilege escalation and denial of service conditions. An attacker with access to an X server environment can exploit this vulnerability to cause the graphics driver to allocate insufficient memory, leading to buffer overflows that may be leveraged for arbitrary code execution. The attack surface is particularly concerning in multi-user environments where X server access is granted to untrusted users, as it provides a pathway for privilege escalation attacks. The vulnerability affects systems running affected Mesa versions and can be exploited through X11 graphics connections, making it relevant to desktop and server environments that utilize OpenGL graphics acceleration.
Security mitigations for CVE-2013-1993 require immediate patching of affected Mesa installations to versions that address the integer overflow conditions in libGLX. System administrators should implement proper input validation controls and monitor X server connections for anomalous behavior patterns. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which involves exploiting legitimate credentials and system access to gain elevated privileges. Additional defensive measures include restricting X server access to trusted users, implementing network segmentation to limit exposure, and deploying memory protection mechanisms such as stack canaries and address space layout randomization. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict execution of untrusted graphics applications and monitor for unusual memory allocation patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The remediation process should include thorough testing of updated Mesa installations to ensure compatibility with existing graphics applications while maintaining security posture against this class of integer overflow vulnerabilities.