CVE-2003-1261 in CuteFTP
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in CuteFTP 5.0 and 5.0.1 allows local users to cause a denial of service (crash) by copying a long URL into a clipboard.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/19/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2003-1261 represents a classic buffer overflow flaw within CuteFTP version 5.0 and 5.0.1 client software. This security weakness resides in the application's handling of URL data within the clipboard functionality, creating a scenario where malicious or unintended input can trigger system instability. The vulnerability specifically affects local users who possess the ability to manipulate clipboard contents, making it particularly concerning in environments where users may have elevated privileges or where the application operates in multi-user contexts.
The technical implementation of this buffer overflow stems from inadequate input validation and bounds checking within the clipboard handling routines of CuteFTP. When a user copies an excessively long URL to the clipboard, the application fails to properly validate the length of the data before processing it, leading to memory corruption that ultimately results in application crash. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121, which categorizes buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. The flaw demonstrates poor memory management practices that are commonly exploited in denial of service attacks.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates significant risk for organizations relying on CuteFTP for file transfer operations. The denial of service condition effectively prevents legitimate users from accessing the application during the crash period, potentially disrupting critical business processes that depend on file transfer capabilities. In enterprise environments where multiple users may be simultaneously accessing the application, a single malicious clipboard manipulation could affect service availability for all connected users. The local nature of this vulnerability means that exploitation requires physical access or user-level privileges, but this accessibility makes it particularly dangerous in shared computing environments.
The impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple service disruption to potentially compromise the overall stability of the computing environment. When CuteFTP crashes due to buffer overflow, it may leave behind corrupted memory states or leave file handles open, potentially affecting other applications or system resources. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under T1499, which covers denial of service attacks, and the technique can be leveraged as part of broader exploitation campaigns targeting network infrastructure. Organizations should consider implementing additional monitoring for application crash patterns and clipboard activity as potential indicators of exploitation attempts.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2003-1261 should focus on immediate software updates and enhanced input validation measures. The most effective solution involves upgrading to a patched version of CuteFTP that properly implements bounds checking for clipboard operations. System administrators should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict clipboard manipulation capabilities where possible. Additional defensive measures include monitoring for unusual clipboard activity patterns and implementing automated application crash recovery mechanisms. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and memory management practices that should be integrated into all software development lifecycle processes to prevent similar issues from occurring in future versions of similar applications.