CVE-2001-0318 in ProFTPD
Summary
by MITRE
Format string vulnerability in ProFTPD 1.2.0rc2 may allow attackers to execute arbitrary commands by shutting down the FTP server while using a malformed working directory (cwd).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/09/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2001-0318 represents a critical format string flaw in ProFTPD version 1.2.0rc2 that exposes the ftp server to remote command execution attacks. This vulnerability specifically manifests when the server processes a malformed working directory command during shutdown operations, creating a dangerous condition that can be exploited by malicious actors to gain unauthorized control over the affected system. The flaw resides in how the software handles user input during the directory change process, particularly when the server is in the process of terminating connections.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and format string handling within the ProFTPD daemon. When an attacker sends a specially crafted cwd command containing format specifiers during server shutdown, the application fails to properly sanitize the input before processing it through printf-style functions. This creates a classic format string vulnerability where the attacker can manipulate memory contents and potentially execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the ftp daemon process. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it occurs during a critical system operation when the server is already in a state of transition, making normal security measures less effective.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to include complete system compromise and potential data exfiltration. Attackers exploiting this flaw can execute commands on the target system with the same privileges as the ftp service, which typically runs with elevated permissions to manage file transfers and access controls. The vulnerability affects any system running ProFTPD 1.2.0rc2 and exposes organizations to risks including unauthorized data access, system infiltration, and potential use as a foothold for further network attacks. The timing of the exploitation during server shutdown creates additional challenges for detection and mitigation as administrators may not expect malicious activity during normal maintenance operations.
This vulnerability maps directly to CWE-134 which specifically addresses format string vulnerabilities in software applications. The attack vector aligns with techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1059 for command and scripting interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation. Organizations should immediately implement patches from the ProFTPD development team addressing the format string handling in directory change operations. System administrators must also deploy network monitoring to detect unusual cwd command patterns and ensure proper input validation is enforced throughout the ftp service. Additionally, implementing principle of least privilege for ftp service accounts and conducting regular security audits of ftp server configurations will significantly reduce the risk of exploitation. The vulnerability underscores the importance of proper input sanitization and the critical need for regular software updates to address known security flaws in network services.