CVE-2002-0608 in FTP Client
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in Matu FTP client 1.74 allows remote FTP servers to execute arbitrary code via a long "220" banner.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/04/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-0608 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw in the Matu FTP client version 1.74 that exposes users to remote code execution risks. This issue stems from inadequate input validation within the client's handling of FTP server responses, specifically when processing the initial connection banner message that servers typically send with a 220 response code. The flaw occurs when the client receives an overly long banner string from a malicious FTP server, causing the application to write beyond the bounds of allocated memory buffers. This classic buffer overflow vulnerability creates an exploitable condition where attacker-controlled data can overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially allowing for arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the affected user.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability follows the standard buffer overflow pattern where the client application fails to properly validate the length of the server-provided banner string before copying it into a fixed-size buffer. According to CWE-121, this represents a classic stack-based buffer overflow condition that can be exploited through carefully crafted input data. The 220 banner response code is the standard FTP response indicating that the server is ready to accept commands, making this attack vector particularly insidious as it can be triggered during normal connection establishment processes. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires no special privileges from the attacker beyond the ability to control an FTP server, making it a remote exploitation scenario that can be executed from any location on the internet.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential data breaches. When successfully exploited, the buffer overflow can allow attackers to inject and execute malicious code on the victim's system, potentially leading to full system control, data exfiltration, or use as a pivot point for further attacks within a network. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it can be initiated without user interaction beyond establishing a connection to a malicious FTP server, making it an automated threat that can affect any user running the vulnerable Matu FTP client. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as attackers can leverage the compromised client to execute arbitrary commands and establish persistent access to target systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-0608 should prioritize immediate patching of the affected Matu FTP client software to the latest version that addresses the buffer overflow condition. System administrators should implement network segmentation and firewall rules to restrict FTP traffic to trusted sources, particularly when dealing with external FTP servers that cannot be verified as legitimate. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing network monitoring solutions that can detect unusual FTP traffic patterns or attempts to send unusually long banner responses that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of input validation and proper memory management in client applications, particularly those that handle network communications and user data. Security teams should also implement regular vulnerability assessments to identify other potentially vulnerable applications that may suffer from similar buffer overflow conditions, ensuring comprehensive protection against this class of exploitation.