CVE-2001-0449 in WinZip
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in WinZip 8.0 allows attackers to execute arbitrary commands via a long file name that is processed by the /zipandemail command line option.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/31/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2001-0449 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within WinZip version 8.0 that specifically targets the /zipandemail command line option. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and memory management practices within the software's file name handling mechanism. The flaw occurs when the application processes excessively long file names through the zipandemail functionality, creating a condition where memory allocated for storing the file name exceeds its designated bounds. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of Stack-based Buffer Overflow, where the buffer overflow occurs in stack memory during function execution. The attack vector is particularly concerning as it leverages command line parameters, making it accessible through various execution contexts including automated scripts and maliciously crafted command sequences.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates how WinZip 8.0 fails to properly validate the length of file names passed through the command line interface. When an attacker provides a file name exceeding the allocated buffer size, the excess data overflows into adjacent memory locations, potentially corrupting the program's execution flow. This memory corruption can be exploited to overwrite critical program variables, return addresses, or function pointers, ultimately allowing an attacker to redirect program execution to malicious code. The /zipandemail option serves as the specific trigger mechanism because it processes file names through a vulnerable code path that does not implement proper bounds checking. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and script interpreter, as attackers can leverage command line execution to deliver malicious payloads through crafted file names.
The operational impact of CVE-2001-0449 extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary commands on vulnerable systems. This represents a significant privilege escalation risk, particularly in environments where WinZip is used with elevated permissions or in automated workflows. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where email automation and file compression are common practices, as attackers could exploit this flaw to gain unauthorized access to systems through seemingly legitimate zip and email operations. The exploitation requires minimal privileges to craft the malicious file name, making it accessible to attackers with basic technical knowledge. Additionally, the vulnerability's persistence across different operating system environments within the windows platform ecosystem amplifies its threat potential, as the same exploit can be applied across multiple targets.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2001-0449 should focus on both immediate remediation and long-term security hardening approaches. The most effective immediate solution involves upgrading to a patched version of WinZip that addresses the buffer overflow in the /zipandemail command line processing. Organizations should also implement strict input validation policies that limit file name lengths and sanitize all command line parameters before processing. Network-level defenses can include implementing application whitelisting controls that restrict execution of vulnerable WinZip versions, while endpoint protection solutions should monitor for suspicious command line parameters and file name patterns. Security teams should also consider implementing principle of least privilege controls to limit the execution context of WinZip applications, reducing the potential impact of successful exploitation. The vulnerability serves as a classic example of why defensive programming practices including bounds checking and input validation should be implemented at all levels of software development, as outlined in the OWASP Secure Coding Practices guidelines and aligned with the NIST Cybersecurity Framework for vulnerability management and mitigation.