CVE-2014-4337 in cups-filters
Summary
by MITRE
The process_browse_data function in utils/cups-browsed.c in cups-browsed in cups-filters before 1.0.53 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (out-of-bounds read and application crash) via crafted packet data.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/24/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-4337 resides within the cups-browsed component of the cups-filters package, specifically in the process_browse_data function located in utils/cups-browsed.c. This flaw represents a classic out-of-bounds read condition that can be exploited by remote attackers to trigger a denial of service scenario. The cups-browsed utility serves as a critical component in the CUPS (Common Unix Printing System) ecosystem, facilitating network printer discovery and browsing capabilities across Unix-like systems. When functioning properly, this utility enables clients to automatically discover available network printers and establish connections, making it a fundamental element in enterprise printing environments where multiple devices need to communicate seamlessly.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the process_browse_data function, which processes network packets containing printer browsing data. Attackers can craft malicious packet data that, when processed by the vulnerable cups-browsed component, causes the application to attempt reading memory locations beyond the bounds of allocated buffers. This type of flaw falls under the CWE-129 category of Improper Validation of Array Index, specifically manifesting as an out-of-bounds read condition. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows remote attackers to cause application crashes without requiring local system access or authentication, making it a significant threat to networked printing environments.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple service disruption, as it can be leveraged to create persistent denial of service conditions within printing infrastructures. In enterprise environments where centralized print management is critical, an attacker could repeatedly exploit this vulnerability to keep network printers unavailable, effectively disrupting business operations. The application crash resulting from this out-of-bounds read can cause the cups-browsed daemon to terminate unexpectedly, requiring manual intervention to restore normal printing functionality. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1499.004, which covers network disruption through service availability attacks, and represents a specific implementation weakness that can be exploited to compromise the availability aspect of the CIA triad.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily focus on applying the official patch released with cups-filters version 1.0.53, which addresses the input validation issues in the process_browse_data function. System administrators should prioritize updating their cups-filters installations to the patched version, as this represents the most direct and effective remediation. Additionally, network segmentation and firewall rules can be implemented to restrict access to the cups-browsed service ports, reducing the attack surface. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation in network services and highlights how seemingly minor flaws in utility functions can have significant operational consequences. Organizations should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious packet patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, as this vulnerability can be exploited remotely without authentication requirements.