CVE-2003-0274 in ListProc
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in catmail for ListProc 8.2.09 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long ULISTPROC_UMASK value.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/23/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2003-0274 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the catmail component of ListProc version 8.2.09 and earlier releases. This security weakness resides in the handling of user-provided input through the ULISTPROC_UMASK environment variable, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by remote attackers to gain unauthorized code execution privileges. The flaw specifically manifests when the application processes a specially crafted ULISTPROC_UMASK value that exceeds the allocated buffer space, leading to memory corruption and potential arbitrary code execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and bounds checking within the catmail utility. When ListProc processes the ULISTPROC_UMASK environment variable, it fails to properly verify the length of the input data before copying it into a fixed-size buffer. This classic buffer overflow condition occurs because the application uses unsafe string handling functions that do not perform adequate bounds checking, allowing an attacker to overwrite adjacent memory locations including return addresses and control data. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 as a stack-based buffer overflow, which directly enables attackers to manipulate program execution flow through memory corruption techniques.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a potential foothold for more extensive system compromise. Remote attackers who can influence the ULISTPROC_UMASK environment variable can craft malicious input that triggers the buffer overflow, potentially leading to complete system compromise. This vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the application level within a mail processing utility, meaning that successful exploitation could allow attackers to access sensitive email data, modify system configurations, or establish persistent access points. The attack vector is particularly dangerous as it requires no local privileges and can be executed remotely through the manipulation of environment variables.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2003-0274 should focus on immediate patching of affected ListProc installations to version 8.2.10 or later, which contains the necessary input validation fixes. Organizations should implement strict input validation controls and sanitize all environment variables before processing, particularly those used in mail handling utilities. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by running ListProc applications with minimal required permissions and implementing proper environment variable isolation. Network segmentation and monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual environment variable manipulation patterns, while security teams should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments of similar mail processing components. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as successful exploitation would likely involve the execution of malicious commands through the compromised application. System administrators should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies and regular security audits to prevent similar buffer overflow conditions in other legacy applications.