CVE-2008-2357

Description

From CVE.org

Stack-based buffer overflow in the split_redraw function in split.c in mtr before 0.73, when invoked with the -p (aka --split) option, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted DNS PTR record. NOTE: it could be argued that this is a vulnerability in the ns_name_ntop function in resolv/ns_name.c in glibc and the proper fix should be in glibc; if so, then this should not be treated as a vulnerability in mtr.

Statement

This issue does not affect the versions of mtr as shipped with Red Hat Enterprise Linux 4 or 5.

For Red Hat Enterprise Linux 2.1 and 3, this issue can only be exploited if an attacker can convince victim to use mtr to trace path to or via the IP, for which an attacker controls PTR DNS records. Additionally, the victim must run mtr in "split mode" by providing -p or --split command line options. The Red Hat Product Security has therefore rated this issue as having low security impact, a future update may address this flaw.

Understanding the Weakness (CWE)

CWE-121

Availability

Technical Impact: Modify Memory; DoS: Crash, Exit, or Restart; DoS: Resource Consumption (CPU); DoS: Resource Consumption (Memory)

Buffer overflows generally lead to crashes. Other attacks leading to lack of availability are possible, including putting the program into an infinite loop.

Integrity,Confidentiality,Availability,Access Control

Technical Impact: Modify Memory; Execute Unauthorized Code or Commands; Bypass Protection Mechanism

Buffer overflows often can be used to execute arbitrary code, which is usually outside the scope of a program's implicit security policy.

Integrity,Confidentiality,Availability,Access Control,Other

Technical Impact: Modify Memory; Execute Unauthorized Code or Commands; Bypass Protection Mechanism; Other

When the consequence is arbitrary code execution, this can often be used to subvert any other security service.

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