CVE-2022-23218 in Communications Cloud Native Core Unified Data Repository
Summary
by MITRE • 01/14/2022
The deprecated compatibility function svcunix_create in the sunrpc module of the GNU C Library (aka glibc) through 2.34 copies its path argument on the stack without validating its length, which may result in a buffer overflow, potentially resulting in a denial of service or (if an application is not built with a stack protector enabled) arbitrary code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/29/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-23218 resides within the sunrpc module of the GNU C Library, specifically in the deprecated svcunix_create function that has been marked for removal in future releases. This function serves as a compatibility layer for older applications that rely on legacy RPC mechanisms, but its implementation contains a critical buffer overflow flaw that affects glibc versions through 2.34. The issue stems from the function's handling of path arguments where it directly copies user-supplied input onto the stack without performing any length validation checks, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by malicious actors.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a classic stack-based buffer overflow scenario where the svcunix_create function accepts a path parameter and stores it on the stack without proper bounds checking. When an attacker provides a path argument that exceeds the allocated stack buffer size, the excess data overflows into adjacent stack memory locations, potentially corrupting the stack frame and overwriting critical control data such as return addresses or saved registers. This flaw is particularly concerning because it affects a core system library that numerous applications depend upon, making the attack surface extensive across the entire system ecosystem.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service conditions to potentially enable arbitrary code execution under specific circumstances. While the vulnerability typically results in system instability and service disruption, it can escalate to full system compromise when applications are compiled without stack protection mechanisms such as stack canaries. The attack vector involves crafting malicious path arguments that trigger the buffer overflow condition, potentially allowing attackers to manipulate program execution flow and inject malicious code into the target system. This vulnerability affects system stability and can be exploited by attackers with minimal privileges to cause widespread disruption or gain unauthorized access to systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-23218 involve immediate patching of affected glibc versions to remove the deprecated svcunix_create function entirely, as recommended by the maintainers. System administrators should prioritize updating their glibc installations to versions that have eliminated this function from the codebase, as continued use of vulnerable versions exposes systems to potential exploitation. Additionally, applications should be rebuilt with modern compilation flags that enable stack protection mechanisms, including stack canaries and other security features that prevent exploitation of buffer overflow conditions. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121 stack-based buffer overflow and can be mapped to ATT&CK techniques involving privilege escalation and denial of service through system-level exploits. Organizations should also implement monitoring for unusual RPC activity and consider network segmentation to limit potential attack vectors that could leverage this vulnerability.