CVE-2018-17937 in gpsd
Summary
by MITRE
gpsd versions 2.90 to 3.17 and microjson versions 1.0 to 1.3, an open source project, allow a stack-based buffer overflow, which may allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on embedded platforms via traffic on Port 2947/TCP or crafted JSON inputs.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/01/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-17937 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw affecting gpsd versions 2.90 through 3.17 and microjson versions 1.0 through 1.3 within the open source geolocation ecosystem. This vulnerability resides in the handling of network traffic and JSON input processing mechanisms, creating a significant attack surface that particularly impacts embedded systems where gpsd is commonly deployed. The flaw manifests when the software processes incoming data on port 2947/tcp or malformed JSON inputs, allowing attackers to exploit memory corruption vulnerabilities through carefully crafted payloads.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and bounds checking within the gpsd daemon's parsing routines. When processing network traffic or JSON formatted data, the software fails to properly validate the length of incoming buffers before copying data into fixed-size stack arrays. This classic buffer overflow condition enables attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations including return addresses and control data, potentially allowing arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the gpsd process. The vulnerability specifically aligns with CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified as a high-severity weakness in the Common Weakness Enumeration catalog.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-17937 extends beyond typical network services due to the prevalence of gpsd in embedded systems and IoT devices where it serves as a core location services component. Attackers can remotely exploit this vulnerability by sending malicious data to port 2947/tcp, which is the standard port used by gpsd for communication with GPS receivers and clients. The embedded platform targets create additional risk as these systems often lack robust security controls and may run with elevated privileges. The vulnerability enables attackers to gain remote code execution capabilities, potentially leading to full system compromise, data exfiltration, or persistent backdoor installation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected gpsd and microjson components to versions that include proper input validation and bounds checking mechanisms. Organizations should implement network segmentation to restrict access to port 2947/tcp to trusted sources only, while also deploying network monitoring solutions to detect anomalous traffic patterns. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1203 Exploitation for Client Execution, with potential lateral movement opportunities through compromised embedded devices. Additional defensive measures include implementing intrusion detection systems, conducting regular vulnerability assessments, and establishing secure configuration practices for gpsd deployments. System administrators should also consider disabling unnecessary services and implementing strict access controls to minimize the attack surface for this and similar vulnerabilities.