CVE-2014-0749 in TORQUE Resource Manager
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in lib/Libdis/disrsi_.c in Terascale Open-Source Resource and Queue Manager (aka TORQUE Resource Manager) 2.5.x through 2.5.13 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a large count value.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/03/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-0749 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow within the Terascale Open-Source Resource and Queue Manager TORQUE Resource Manager version 2.5.x through 2.5.13. This flaw exists in the lib/Libdis/disrsi_.c source file, which handles resource scheduling information processing. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation when processing count values, creating a scenario where maliciously crafted input can overwrite adjacent stack memory regions. The affected component specifically processes resource scheduling information, making it a prime target for remote exploitation. This buffer overflow condition allows attackers to manipulate the program execution flow by overwriting return addresses and potentially executing arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected service.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability follows the classic stack-based buffer overflow pattern where a fixed-size buffer is written to without proper bounds checking. The disrsi_.c module processes count values that are directly used to determine buffer allocation sizes, but when these values exceed expected ranges, the program fails to validate their legitimacy. This validation failure results in a classic stack corruption scenario where the overflow can overwrite saved return addresses, function pointers, and other critical stack data. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates in a network-facing context, allowing remote attackers to trigger the condition without requiring local access. According to CWE-121, this represents a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability where insufficient bounds checking permits writing beyond allocated buffer boundaries.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-0749 extends beyond simple code execution, as it can lead to complete system compromise when exploited successfully. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to systems running vulnerable TORQUE versions, potentially escalating privileges to the level of the service account. The attack vector requires network connectivity to the affected service, making it particularly concerning for high-availability computing environments where TORQUE manages critical resource allocation. Organizations using TORQUE for cluster management, batch job scheduling, and resource monitoring face significant risk exposure. The vulnerability's exploitation can result in persistent backdoor access, data exfiltration, and disruption of legitimate computing operations. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script interpreter execution, as successful exploitation would enable attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the compromised system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-0749 should prioritize immediate patching of affected TORQUE installations to version 2.5.14 or later, which contains the necessary input validation fixes. System administrators must also implement network segmentation to limit access to TORQUE services, particularly restricting network exposure to trusted administrative networks. Additional defensive measures include deploying intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious network traffic patterns targeting TORQUE service ports, implementing strict input validation at network boundaries, and conducting regular vulnerability assessments of cluster management systems. The fix implemented in the patched versions addresses the root cause by introducing proper bounds checking on count values before buffer operations occur, preventing the overflow condition from manifesting. Organizations should also consider implementing runtime protections such as stack canaries and address space layout randomization to reduce exploit reliability, though these measures are secondary to proper input validation. Regular security audits of cluster management infrastructure remain essential to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities across the enterprise computing environment.