CVE-1999-0048

Talkd, when given corrupt DNS information, can be used to execute arbitrary commands with root privileges

published September 29, 1999

CVSS
—
EPSS
3%
Percentile
87.8
In the wild
Unconfirmed
What it is

⚠️ A little DNS corruption is all it takes! Talkd can be tricked into executing commands with root privileges, like a delivery service following a fake address. 🛠️ Think of Talkd like a restaurant that only serves what the waiter brings them. If the waiter receives a forged order slip, they might cook up something entirely wrong, perhaps even harmful! An attacker could exploit this vulnerability to execute arbitrary commands with root access, effectively gaining full control over the system. This could lead to significant data loss, unauthorized access, or even complete system failure. It's essential to keep a close eye on your DNS configurations!

Put simply

Think of Talkd like a restaurant that only serves what the waiter brings them. If the waiter receives a forged order slip, they might cook up something entirely wrong, perhaps even harmful! This vulnerability arises when Talkd is fed corrupt DNS information, allowing attackers to misdirect the service into executing malicious commands. In essence, it creates an opportunity for a remote exploit with serious consequences.

What to do

An attacker could exploit this vulnerability to execute arbitrary commands with root access, effectively gaining full control over the system. This could lead to significant data loss, unauthorized access, or even complete system failure. It's essential to keep a close eye on your DNS configurations! To mitigate this risk, ensure your DNS configurations are accurate and not prone to manipulation. Regularly audit your Talkd setup and consider implementing DNS validation measures. Always keep an eye on updates and patches for your systems! You can tackle this vulnerability head-on! Keep your defenses strong, and you'll maintain security hero status! 🦸

The record
Technical detail
CVSS
Not scored
CVSS v4.0
Not supplied
EPSS
0.03134 · 87.8th percentile
Published
1999-09-29T04:00Z
EPSS history
Timeline
  • 29 SEP 04:00Z
    Talkd, when given corrupt DNS information, can be used to execute arbitrary commands with root privileges
    cvelistv5