CVE-2021-38427 in Connext DDS Professional
Summary
by MITRE • 05/05/2022
RTI Connext DDS Professional and Connext DDS Secure Versions 4.2.x to 6.1.0 are vulnerable to a stack-based buffer overflow, which may allow a local attacker to execute arbitrary code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/05/2025
RTI Connext DDS Professional and Connext DDS Secure versions 4.2.x through 6.1.0 contain a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability that presents a significant security risk to systems utilizing these middleware components. This vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation within the data handling mechanisms of the software, specifically when processing incoming data streams or configuration parameters. The flaw allows a local attacker with minimal privileges to potentially exploit the buffer overflow condition and execute arbitrary code on the affected system. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects a widely deployed middleware solution used in critical infrastructure applications including aerospace, automotive, and industrial control systems where reliability and security are paramount. The buffer overflow occurs when the application fails to properly bounds-check data before copying it into a fixed-size stack buffer, creating an opportunity for malicious input to overwrite adjacent memory locations. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121 stack-based buffer overflow as defined in the Common Weakness Enumeration catalog, which specifically addresses issues related to insufficient bounds checking in stack memory allocations. The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or disruption of critical services. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information or manipulate system behavior, particularly in environments where Connext DDS is used for real-time data distribution across distributed systems. The attack vector requires local system access, making it more difficult to exploit remotely but still poses a serious threat in environments where privilege escalation or lateral movement is possible. Organizations using these middleware versions should consider the potential for supply chain attacks, as compromised systems could serve as entry points for broader network infiltration. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input validation and memory safety practices in real-time embedded systems where security considerations must be balanced against performance requirements. Mitigation strategies should include immediate patching of affected versions, implementation of additional runtime protections such as stack canaries or address space layout randomization, and comprehensive monitoring for suspicious system behavior. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under privilege escalation and code execution techniques, highlighting the need for defensive measures that prevent local users from gaining elevated privileges. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation to limit the potential impact of exploitation and establish robust incident response procedures for detecting and responding to such vulnerabilities in their critical systems.