CVE-1999-0099

Buffer overflow in syslog utility allows local or remote attackers to gain root privileges

published September 29, 1999

CVSS
—
EPSS
3%
Percentile
88.3
In the wild
Unconfirmed
What it is

⚠️ There's a hidden door in the syslog utility that can let attackers in! This buffer overflow vulnerability could grant root privileges to anyone clever enough to exploit it. 🔓 Think of it like a restaurant kitchen where the head chef accidentally left the back door open. Anyone could stroll right in and access everything, from the pantry to the secret recipe book! If an attacker exploits this vulnerability, they could gain complete control over the system, potentially leading to data theft, system corruption, or even service disruption. This could be absolutely devastating for your infrastructure!

Put simply

Think of it like a restaurant kitchen where the head chef accidentally left the back door open. Anyone could stroll right in and access everything, from the pantry to the secret recipe book! This vulnerability arises from a buffer overflow in the syslog utility, allowing attackers to overwrite memory and gain root access, which they shouldn't normally have. It's like handing over the master key to someone who simply shouldn't have it!

What to do

If an attacker exploits this vulnerability, they could gain complete control over the system, potentially leading to data theft, system corruption, or even service disruption. This could be absolutely devastating for your infrastructure! To address this, ensure that you're running a version of syslog that's patched against this vulnerability. Regularly audit your systems for outdated utilities and monitor for unusual activity that could signal exploitation attempts. You've got this! Stay proactive in your security measures, and you’ll keep your systems safe and sound. 🛡️

The record
Technical detail
CVSS
Not scored
CVSS v4.0
Not supplied
EPSS
0.03256 · 88.3th percentile
Published
1999-09-29T04:00Z
EPSS history
Timeline
  • 29 SEP 04:00Z
    Buffer overflow in syslog utility allows local or remote attackers to gain root privileges
    cvelistv5