CVE-2014-6262 in Zenoss
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple format string vulnerabilities in the python module in RRDtool, as used in Zenoss Core before 4.2.5 and other products, allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (application crash) via a crafted third argument to the rrdtool.graph function, aka ZEN-15415, a related issue to CVE-2013-2131.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/15/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-6262 represents a critical format string vulnerability within the python module of RRDtool, a widely used system for storing and retrieving time-series data. This flaw specifically affects Zenoss Core versions prior to 4.2.5 and other products that incorporate RRDtool functionality. The vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation when processing user-supplied data within the rrdtool.graph function, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate the application's behavior through carefully crafted third arguments. The issue is particularly concerning as it enables remote code execution capabilities, making it a significant threat to systems that rely on RRDtool for monitoring and data visualization purposes. The vulnerability's classification as a format string issue indicates that the application fails to properly sanitize or escape input data before using it in printf-style functions, which can lead to arbitrary code execution when malicious format specifiers are introduced.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker provides a malicious third argument to the rrdtool.graph function, which then processes this input without adequate sanitization. This allows the attacker to inject format specifiers that can manipulate the program's execution flow, potentially leading to stack-based buffer overflows or arbitrary code execution on the target system. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-134, which specifically addresses the use of format strings inappropriately, making it susceptible to attacks that can overwrite memory locations and execute arbitrary instructions. The impact of such exploitation can range from complete system compromise to denial of service conditions, where the application crashes and becomes unavailable to legitimate users. The vulnerability's relationship to CVE-2013-2131 demonstrates a pattern of similar weaknesses in RRDtool's handling of user input, indicating a systemic issue in the software's security design.
From an operational standpoint, this vulnerability poses severe risks to monitoring and management systems that depend on Zenoss Core and similar products. Organizations using affected versions of these systems face potential unauthorized access to their infrastructure monitoring capabilities, which could lead to data breaches, service disruption, or complete system compromise. The remote exploitability means that attackers can target these systems from external networks without requiring physical access or prior authentication. The vulnerability affects not only the specific Zenoss Core implementation but also other products that integrate RRDtool, creating a widespread impact across various monitoring and data collection platforms. Security teams must consider the potential for lateral movement within networks where these vulnerable systems exist, as attackers could use compromised monitoring infrastructure to gain deeper access to network resources.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-6262 primarily focus on immediate patching of affected systems and implementation of input validation measures. Organizations should prioritize updating to Zenoss Core 4.2.5 or later versions that contain the necessary fixes for this vulnerability. Additionally, implementing network segmentation and access controls can limit the potential impact of exploitation attempts. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual patterns in monitoring system usage that might indicate exploitation attempts. The implementation of proper input sanitization and validation within applications that utilize RRDtool functionality can provide additional defense-in-depth measures. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies and restricting the execution of potentially dangerous functions to reduce the attack surface. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify and remediate similar weaknesses in other system components that might be susceptible to format string vulnerabilities. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under privilege escalation and execution techniques, highlighting the need for comprehensive security controls that address both the immediate vulnerability and broader exploitation patterns.