CVE-2001-1228 in gzip
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflows in gzip 1.3x, 1.2.4, and other versions might allow attackers to execute code via a long file name, possibly remotely if gzip is run on an FTP server.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/11/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2001-1228 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw affecting gzip compression utilities across multiple versions including 1.3x and 1.2.4. This issue stems from inadequate input validation within the gzip decompression process where the software fails to properly handle excessively long file names during archive extraction. The flaw manifests when gzip processes compressed archives containing file names that exceed predetermined buffer limits, causing memory corruption that can be exploited by malicious actors. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be triggered remotely when gzip is executed in server environments such as ftp servers, making it a significant threat to networked systems that process untrusted compressed data.
From a technical perspective, this buffer overflow vulnerability operates through the manipulation of input data structures within the gzip decompression routine. When processing compressed archives, the software allocates fixed-size buffers to store file name information but does not adequately verify the length of incoming file names before copying them into these buffers. This creates a condition where an attacker can craft a malicious archive with an overly long file name that overflows the allocated memory space, potentially overwriting adjacent memory regions including return addresses and control data. The vulnerability maps directly to CWE-121, which categorizes heap-based buffer overflow conditions, and can be classified under ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter execution through buffer overflow exploitation.
The operational impact of CVE-2001-1228 extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios to encompass full system compromise capabilities. When exploited successfully, attackers can execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the gzip process, which typically runs with the permissions of the user who initiated the decompression. In ftp server environments, this means that remote attackers could potentially gain unauthorized access to the system, establish persistent backdoors, or escalate privileges to gain administrative control. The vulnerability's remote exploitability makes it particularly dangerous for web applications and network services that process user-uploaded compressed files, as it allows attackers to compromise systems without requiring physical access or prior authentication. Additionally, the widespread use of gzip across various operating systems and applications increases the potential attack surface significantly.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate remediation through software updates and patches provided by gzip maintainers, as well as implementing defensive measures to prevent exploitation attempts. Organizations should prioritize updating their gzip implementations to versions that address the buffer overflow conditions through proper input validation and length checking mechanisms. Network administrators should consider implementing file size limits and content filtering for compressed archives processed by gzip, particularly in public-facing services. Additional protective measures include running gzip processes with minimal required privileges, implementing proper input sanitization for all compressed data, and monitoring for suspicious file name patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a classic example of why proper memory management and input validation are critical components of secure software development practices, aligning with security standards that emphasize defensive programming techniques and input sanitization as fundamental protection mechanisms.