CVE-2002-0467 in Listar
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflows in Ecartis (formerly Listar) 1.0.0 before snapshot 20020125 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via (1) address_match() of mystring.c or (2) other functions in tolist.c.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/19/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-0467 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw in Ecartis version 1.0.0 prior to snapshot 20020125, which is a widely used mailing list management system. This vulnerability resides in the core string handling functions of the software, specifically within the address_match() function in mystring.c and various functions within tolist.c. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and bounds checking when processing user-supplied data, creating opportunities for attackers to manipulate memory layout and potentially execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems. The vulnerability affects the fundamental operation of the mailing list manager, which processes email addresses and list membership requests, making it a prime target for exploitation.
The technical implementation of this buffer overflow occurs when the software processes email addresses or list-related data without proper bounds checking on string lengths. The address_match() function in mystring.c and related functions in tolist.c fail to validate the length of input data before copying it into fixed-size buffers, allowing attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and specifically aligns with CWE-787, which addresses out-of-bounds write operations. When exploited, the buffer overflow can lead to stack corruption, potentially allowing attackers to overwrite return addresses or function pointers, thereby achieving arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the affected service.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it represents a serious threat to the integrity and availability of mailing list services. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability could gain unauthorized access to systems running vulnerable versions of Ecartis, potentially compromising the entire mailing list infrastructure. The attack surface is particularly concerning because mailing list managers often run with elevated privileges and may be accessible to unauthenticated users, making the exploitation vector more accessible. This vulnerability directly maps to attack techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation, as successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise.
The mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-0467 primarily involve immediate patching of the affected Ecartis installations with the snapshot 20020125 or later versions that contain the necessary buffer overflow fixes. System administrators should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of vulnerable systems to untrusted networks. Input validation should be strengthened at all levels, including implementing proper bounds checking and using safe string handling functions. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar issues in other components of the system. Organizations running legacy mailing list infrastructure should consider migrating to modern, supported solutions that incorporate robust memory safety mechanisms and regular security updates to prevent similar vulnerabilities from arising in the future.