CVE-2015-2899 in MEDCIN Engine
Summary
by MITRE
Heap-based buffer overflow in the QualifierList retrieve_qualifier_list function in Medicomp MEDCIN Engine before 2.22.20153.226 might allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long list name in a packet on port 8190.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/07/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-2899 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow flaw within the Medicomp MEDCIN Engine software suite. This vulnerability specifically affects versions prior to 2.22.20153.226 and resides within the QualifierList retrieve_qualifier_list function. The flaw manifests when the system processes incoming packets on port 8190, which serves as the designated communication channel for the MEDCIN Engine. The vulnerability arises from inadequate input validation and bounds checking mechanisms that fail to properly handle excessively long list names within the packet payload. This allows an attacker to craft malicious packets containing oversized data structures that exceed the allocated heap memory boundaries, creating a condition where adjacent memory locations can be overwritten with attacker-controlled data.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a classic buffer overflow attack pattern that aligns with CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions. The flaw occurs because the retrieve_qualifier_list function does not perform proper length validation before copying data into heap-allocated buffers. When a remote attacker sends a specially crafted packet containing an abnormally long list name, the system's memory management routines fail to enforce size constraints, leading to memory corruption that can be leveraged for arbitrary code execution. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1203, where adversaries exploit buffer overflow conditions to gain control over system execution flow. The heap corruption typically results in stack pointer manipulation, return address overwriting, or function pointer corruption that allows attackers to redirect program execution to malicious code.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it provides attackers with potential persistence mechanisms and privilege escalation opportunities within the targeted environment. Since the MEDCIN Engine operates in healthcare and medical systems, exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive patient data, disruption of critical medical services, or even compromise of entire hospital network infrastructures. The vulnerability's remote attack surface through port 8190 means that attackers need only discover a vulnerable system to initiate exploitation without requiring physical access or local privileges. Organizations running affected versions of the Medicomp MEDCIN Engine face significant risk, particularly in environments where medical devices are connected to enterprise networks and where the system handles sensitive health information. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it operates at the application layer, making detection more challenging and potentially allowing for stealthy long-term presence within the network.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-2899 should prioritize immediate patch deployment to version 2.22.20153.226 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the buffer overflow condition. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to port 8190, limiting the attack surface to only authorized systems and personnel. Additionally, implementing network monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous packet sizes or traffic patterns on port 8190 can provide early warning of potential exploitation attempts. System administrators should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of the affected MEDCIN Engine software across their infrastructure, particularly in healthcare environments where such systems are commonly deployed. The remediation process should include comprehensive testing of the patched software to ensure that the fix does not introduce compatibility issues with existing medical applications or workflows. Organizations should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems with signatures specifically designed to detect exploitation attempts targeting this vulnerability, as the attack pattern follows predictable behavioral characteristics that can be monitored and blocked at the network perimeter.