CVE-2018-1771 in Domino
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Domino 9.0 and 9.0.1 could allow an attacker to execute commands on the system by triggering a buffer overflow in the parsing of command line arguments passed to nsd.exe. IBM X-force ID: 148687.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/20/2023
IBM Domino version 9.0 and 9.0.1 contains a critical buffer overflow vulnerability in the nsd.exe process that can be exploited to achieve remote command execution on affected systems. This vulnerability stems from improper input validation during the parsing of command line arguments, creating a condition where maliciously crafted input can overwrite adjacent memory locations in the application's memory space. The nsd.exe process is responsible for handling network services and system monitoring functions within the IBM Domino environment, making it a prime target for attackers seeking persistent access to server infrastructure.
The technical flaw manifests when the nsd.exe application processes command line parameters without adequate bounds checking or input sanitization. This buffer overflow condition allows an attacker to manipulate memory layout by providing overly long argument strings that exceed the allocated buffer size. When the application attempts to copy these arguments into fixed-size memory buffers, the excess data overflows into adjacent memory regions, potentially corrupting critical program state or executable code. This type of vulnerability is classified as CWE-121, which specifically addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite memory locations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it enables attackers to execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the nsd.exe process, which typically runs with elevated system permissions. Successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and persistence mechanisms being established within the Domino environment. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to sensitive email data, system files, and network resources that are typically protected by the Domino server's security controls. The vulnerability affects organizations using IBM Domino 9.0 and 9.0.1 versions, potentially exposing email infrastructure, collaboration platforms, and business-critical communication systems to unauthorized access.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching of affected IBM Domino versions, as IBM released security updates specifically addressing this buffer overflow condition. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit access to Domino servers, employ input validation controls at network boundaries, and monitor for suspicious command line argument patterns in system logs. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, as attackers can leverage the buffer overflow to execute system commands directly. Additionally, implementing principle of least privilege for the nsd.exe process and regular security assessments of Domino configurations can significantly reduce the attack surface. Organizations should also consider deploying intrusion detection systems that can identify anomalous command execution patterns and establish incident response procedures specifically tailored to address Domino server compromises.